40 injured when Amtrak train derails after colliding with tractor trailer with driver John Devin Black, 43, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 301 and N.C. Highway 903 in Halifax County, North Carolina

Modified Date: 
Wed, 03/11/2015 - 12:52pm
Accident Date: 
Monday, March 9, 2015

40 injured when Amtrak train from Charlotte strikes truck, derails in Halifax Co

Forty people were injured when a train derailed in Halifax County after colliding with a tractor trailer on Monday afternoon, according to officials.

N.Y.-bound Amtrak derails in eastern North Carolina

The truck was carrying a mobile home, the Raleigh News & Observer reported. "The train ran right though it," train passenger Patrick Narmi, 21, told the newspaper. Narmi said he had just settled into his seat for the 10-hour trip to New York's Penn Station when the train "braked harder than usual."

Amtrak Train Derails In North Carolina After Hitting Truck

"There was a massive jerk and we were kind of thrown forward a little bit, and the train came to a sudden stop," Story told the station. "I couldn't tell you if it was trying to slow down or not. There was no whistle. It came completely out of the blue."

Dramatic video captures moment train slams tractor-trailer in North Carolina

“We are relieved that there are no fatalities reported at this time, and our thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured. Safety is always our top priority, and we continue to urge everyone to use extreme caution and stay alert when crossing our railroad tracks.”

Truck driver in Amtrak crash in NC has history of violations

John Devin Black, 43, has been cited for at least a dozen traffic violations, including speeding and driving with a revoked license, according to records reviewed and confirmed by The Associated Press.

Around 12:15 p.m. Amtrak Carolinian Train 80 struck a tractor trailer that was on the tracks of a train crossing at the intersection of U.S. Highway 301 and N.C. Highway 903. The engine and baggage car came off the rails, causing the engine to roll over and come to rest on its side. All other cars of the train remained upright. The train was heading northbound from Charlotte. 40 passengers were transported to Halifax Memorial Hospital with minor injuries. The remaining 173 passengers were taken to Halifax County Center, where buses were available to take them to Richmond. 

People Involved: 
John Devin Black

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