Train hits 18-wheeler in Richland parish

Richland Parish deputies responded a crash involving an 18 wheeler and train at 8:25 a.m. May 5 at the railroad crossing on Gin Road near US Hwy 80, west of Rayville.

Richland Parish Sheriff Lee Harrell said the investigation revealed that the 18 wheeler was being operated by Jason Burdette, 37, of South Carolina, who was off of his permitted route at the time. The truck’s lowboy trailer was loaded with a large farm tractor. The trailer high centered the railroad tracks and became lodged. The driver had exited the truck to access the situation. The Kansas City Southern train struck near the center of the trailer causing damage to the trailer and its load within minutes of the trailer being stuck on the tracks.

At the point of contact the 18 wheeler was not occupied. The engineer reported back pain and was taken from the scene by KCS employees to the Richardson Medical Center.

Burdette was cited for obstruction of a railroad.