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CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The driver of a truck hit by a train Tuesday afternoon has died, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office said.
The St. Paul’s Fire District says the crash happened Tuesday afternoon at the railroad crossing along Salters Hill Road near Drayton Street.
Charleston County Sheriff’s spokesman Andrew Knapp said the crash happened just before 4:30 p.m. and that the truck was pushed approximately a half-mile down the tracks after impact with the train.
An initial investigation indicated the truck attempted to drive around the railroad arms when it was hit by the train, Knapp said.
Knapp said an ambulance took the driver to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Fire Chief Larry Garvin said a helicopter had been requested for assistance.
CSX confirmed that none of its crew members were injured in the collision. The company issued a statement late Tuesday:
CSX appreciates the swift response of Charleston County first responders, and we will work on scene to support local law enforcement as they investigate.
Deputies remained at the scene into the evening as the sheriff’s office’s traffic unit investigated the track. The train is blocking Salters Hill Road, forcing drivers to turn around.
It was not immediately clear how soon the train might be cleared from the scene so that the roadway would open up.
The truck driver’s identity has not yet been released.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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