An Amtrak train carrying nearly 200 passengers derailed on June 28 after colliding with a county water truck, leaving several people injured. The incident took place in Moorpark, and authorities have reported that the truck driver sustained critical injuries.
Ventura County Fire Department Captain Brian McGrath stated that three cars of the train, out of seven, veered off the tracks following the collision. Thankfully, the derailed train cars remained upright, preventing further damage and potential injuries. The accident site is located near an orchard and barren sections of land.
Emergency responders swiftly arrived at the scene to provide medical assistance. Fourteen passengers from the train were transported to local hospitals with minor injuries. The truck driver, however, was in a more critical condition and was rushed to a trauma center due to a head injury.
The wreckage of the Ventura County Public Works truck was scattered around the derailed train cars. Initially, it was believed that the truck driver had managed to exit the vehicle before the crash. However, Captain McGrath later clarified that the exact circumstances leading up to the collision remained unknown, as authorities had not yet spoken with the truck driver.
Passengers on board the train described the sudden impact and subsequent chaos. Mindy Faver, who was traveling with her mother after visiting family in Oregon, recounted the moment of impact.
"All of a sudden: Smack!" she said.
Faver witnessed the water truck's tank tumbling past her window, realizing the severity of the collision.
Fortunately, most of the passengers were able to evacuate the train cars unassisted or with the help of first responders. News helicopters captured images of numerous individuals, many carrying their luggage, gathering in a nearby field while firefighters worked to secure the area.
Reflecting on the incident, Mindy Faver expressed her gratitude.
"It could have been a lot worse," Faver added.
The investigation into the collision is still ongoing, as authorities aim to determine the events leading up to the accident and gather more information about the truck driver's condition.
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