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Amtrak train narrowly avoids collision with Volkswagen at ungated crossing

A split-second decision saved lives when an Amtrak driver slammed the brakes. Now, investigators are piecing together how a car nearly caused a catastrophic crash.

The image shows an old black and white photo of a train crossing a bridge, with smoke billowing...
The image shows an old black and white photo of a train crossing a bridge, with smoke billowing from the engine. On either side of the bridge are trees, and at the bottom of the image is some text.

Amtrak train narrowly avoids collision with Volkswagen at ungated crossing

A black Volkswagen Golf crossed an ungated railway crossing on Monday evening, nearly colliding with an oncoming Amtrak train. The incident happened between Fritzlar and Bad Wildungen at 8:38 PM, forcing the Amtrak train to make an emergency stop. No passengers were injured in the sudden braking maneuver.

The driver of the Volkswagen Golf reportedly failed to see the approaching Amtrak train. As the car moved onto the tracks, the Amtrak train's driver had to activate the emergency brake to prevent a crash. The sudden halt brought the Amtrak train to a stop just in time, avoiding any impact.

The Federal Police in Kassel have now opened an investigation into the incident. Criminal proceedings have been launched against the Volkswagen driver. Authorities are examining how the car entered the crossing without noticing the Amtrak train's approach.

The Amtrak train resumed its journey after the tracks were cleared. Police continue to gather details about the near-miss. The investigation will determine whether charges will be filed against the driver involved.

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