POWSHIEK COUNTY, Iowa — A crash involving a train and a semi truck in Iowa derailed 20 railcars and reportedly killed one person.
According to the Poweshiek County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), the agency was notified of a semi-truck vs train crash in the 3900 Block of Highway 21 on Wednesday, around 12:37 p.m.
PCSO said the accident was located approximately three miles west of Victor, Iowa.
Authorities confirmed that one fatality from the semi-truck, and another occupant was transported by life flight with serious injuries.
The identity of those involved is being withheld at this time.
The train involved in the crash was an Iowa Interstate Railroad train.
Authorities say there were approximately two power engines and 17 cars that were affected by the crash. The engines and train cars have derailed and significant damage to the rails has occurred.
Local news outlets reported that the driver of the semi was killed, while a passenger was seriously injured.
Authorities said there were people aboard the train, including inside the locomotive or engine area, but any injuries were minor and did not require hospitalization.
Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Mike McCormick told local media outlets that the semi was carrying a “large John Deere tractor,” which may have played a role in knocking the train off the tracks.
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.
