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Train vs. truck wreck reported at crossing at Herkimer and Route 77

By Billie Owens

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A train vs. truck accident is reported in the railroad right-of-way at Herkimer Road and Alleghany Road (Route 77). Unknown injuries. "The call came from the railroad company and they said they can see mile post 399." Darien fire and Mercy medics are responding.

UPDATE 2:57 a.m.: The dispatcher says "The vehicle is unoccupied." A responder at the scene replies "That's confirmed. The vehicle is not occupied."

UPDATE  3:22 a.m.: The actual location is west of Route 77 where Warner Road meets the dead end of Herkimer, according to Howard at the scene.

UPDATE 3:32 a.m. (From Howard at the scene): The fairly new Ford pickup truck, registered to someone in the neighborhood where the accident occurred, was struck after being parked on the train tracks facing eastward. It looks as if some was trying to drive on the tracks. The truck was rear-ended by the train and the back end is mangled, but the cab intact. No one is anywhere around it, although firefighters are scouring the vicinity. The train was hauling 94 railroad cars, unknown cargo, and chugging uphill when it struck the truck, so it wasn't going very fast.

UPDATE 3:40 a.m.: Train officials, firefighters, and Sheriff's deputies remain on scene. The railroad track is still blocked. Deputies are being sent to the registered (truck) owner's home.

UPDATE 3:56 a.m.: Law enforcement asks Darien fire command to stay on scene and "requests that you do not enter the vehicle."

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