Amtrak train slams into stopped big rig

HOUSTON (KTRK) Investigators say one of two 18-wheelers made it across the railroad tracks as the crossing lights started to flash. The second 18-wheeler tried to cross as well, but stopped on the tracks just as the crossing arms came down.

An Amtrak train slammed into that 18-wheeler and flipped the trailer over.

"The train did have a minor derailment," said Deputy Jeremy Thomas with the Harris County Sheriff's Office. "It jumped the tracks. It didn't completely come off."

The driver of the 18-wheeler and an Amtrak passenger were taken to the hospital in stable condition. An Amtrak spokesperson says the train was coming from New Orleans. Sixty-one passengers were taken by bus to the Houston Amtrak station until other travel arrangements could be made.

Deputies say the driver of the 18-wheeler will likely face charges.

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