St. Louis, MO (December 25, 2024) – A tragic collision involving a vehicle and a Norfolk Southern train occurred early Tuesday morning at James S McDonnell Blvd and Banshee Rd in St. Louis County. The crash was reported at approximately 2:25 AM and resulted in a fatality.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 2015 Kia Soul was disabled on train tracks when the incident occurred. The crossing signals, including the crossbar, bell, and lights, were activated at the time. A Norfolk Southern General Electric ES44AC train traveling north struck the left side of the vehicle, causing severe damage.
The driver of the Kia Soul, a 35-year-old woman from St. Louis, was pronounced dead at the scene by Berkley Fire Department personnel at 2:40 AM. Her body was transported to the St. Louis County Morgue by the Medical Examiner’s Office. The train sustained no damage and was driven from the scene. No injuries were reported for the train operator, a 53-year-old man from St. Catharine, Missouri.
Assisting at the scene were Troopers J. Lacy, L. Carson, and T. O’Sullivan. The incident remains under investigation.
We would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victim.
Train-Vehicle Collisions in Missouri
Collisions involving trains and vehicles, like the one at James S McDonnell Blvd and Banshee Rd, are rare but often result in severe outcomes due to the size and weight disparity between trains and motor vehicles. Factors such as stalled vehicles on tracks, lack of situational awareness, and failure to heed warning signals often contribute to these devastating events.
Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution around railroad crossings, adhere to warning signals, and avoid stopping on tracks under any circumstances. Being mindful of these risks is critical to preventing such tragedies.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a train-related accident, understanding your legal rights and seeking professional guidance is essential to navigating the aftermath.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports. If you or someone you know has been injured or affected by a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.