MONROE COUNTY, Ga. — A trucker was arrested early Wednesday morning after a crash with a train in rural Georgia, according to a news release from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO).
The incident occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. That is when the Monroe County Deputies were dispatched to a call regarding an overturned tractor-trailer on Highway 83 North at Berner Loop.
The semi driver, identified as Kheino Bennett, 44, of Riviera Beach, Fla. told deputies he saw the railroad crossing arm down with the lights flashing and the approaching train too late to stop.
The driver also stated he applied his brakes abruptly and steered in an attempt to avoid a collision, which caused the truck to overturn and strike one of the train’s cargo cars.
MCSO says its preliminary investigation indicates that the impact caused a train car to derail, bringing the train to a stop in the area of Juliette Road and McCrackin Street.
Bennett was arrested for Possession of Marijuana less than an ounce, Possession of drug-related objects and Operation of a commercial motor vehicle without a valid license or driving privileges.
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
