An Amtrak train collided with a Ford Mustang that had been abandoned on railroad tracks in Milwaukie on Friday evening, leaving both the vehicle and the train with damage, authorities say.
Police Tried to Stop the Train, But Ran Out of Time
The crash happened just after 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of Southeast Harrison Street and Railroad Avenue. Officers responded to reports of a black sedan stuck on the tracks and contacted railway managers in an effort to halt train traffic. Before officers could arrive on scene, however, an Amtrak train struck the vehicle, a stark reminder of how little time responders sometimes have once a vehicle is stuck on active rail lines.
What Happened on Impact
Investigators determined the car involved was a Mustang coupe. The impact pushed the Mustang off the tracks and into a parked vehicle in a nearby lot, and the train came to a stop shortly after the collision. Authorities say no one was inside the Mustang when it was struck; witnesses told police the driver had abandoned the car on the tracks before the train ever arrived. The Amtrak train sustained only minor damage and was able to continue on under its own power, and officials reported no injuries among train passengers or crew.
Driver Identified, Charges Filed
On Sunday, Milwaukie police announced that the driver of the black Mustang had been identified. Authorities issued a criminal citation for failure to perform the duties of a driver, along with additional charges, though police haven’t released further details about the circumstances that led to the car being left on the tracks in the first place. As with any pending citation, the driver’s guilt has not yet been determined by a court. The investigation remains open as officials continue reviewing the incident.