DOT proposes safety upgrades for Aberdeen railroad crossings

A driver was injured after a freight train hit his vehicle in Aberdeen.

The freight train hauling gravel was heading south in downtown Aberdeen when it hit a cargo van at the South Street crossing shortly after 11:15 a.m. Friday.

The driver of the van was able to get out on his own. Aberdeen Fire Department told Sandhills Sentinel when they arrived, the man was sitting in a police car.

Air care was called, but due to weather, it was canceled, and the man was taken to Moore Regional Hospital by Moore County EMS. His condition is currently unknown, but he is believed to have non-life-threatening injuries.

The van was overturned on its side near the crossing and caused damage to the crossing arm control booth. It is unclear if the van was trying to cross the arms. Aberdeen Police Department is investigating and took witnesses’ statements.

The train’s front bumper had minimal damage. The train was cleared to resume around 12:30 p.m.  

South, Main, and Maple streets were closed due to the train blocking the crossing.

Moore County Sheriff’s Office and N.C. State Highway Patrol were also on scene to assist.

Sandhills_Sentinel~Article and photo by Sandhills Sentinel Reporter Curtis Self. Contact him at [email protected].

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