Several Killed In Amtrak Crash Near Reno
RENO, Nev. (CBS13) -- A Sacramento-bound Amtrak train collided with a big rig on a rural Nevada highway Friday morning, killing several people, authorities said.
The National Transportation Safety Board said a number injuries were reported after a semi tractor-trailer vehicle hauling gravel drove into the side of the westbound California Zephyr train at about 11:20 a.m. about 70 miles east of Reno.
Cell phone video provided to CNN showed at least two of the train cars being engulfed in flames as passengers and crew scrambled to clear away from the scene. The driver of the big rig and several passengers on board the train were killed in the incident, according to the Nevada Highway Patrol.
The Nevada Highway Patrol said in a press conference that five or six people have been confirmed dead in the accident.
A number of other passengers were transported to local hospitals. The severity of their injuries has not been released.
In a statement, Amtrak officials said there were 204 passengers and 14 crew members aboard the train at the time of the collision.
"We are saddened by any injury and appreciate the emergency response by local and state agencies," the statement added.
Amtrak and Union Pacific representatives are heading to the scene to assist in the investigation.
Anyone with questions about friends or family who were aboard the train can call (800) 523-9101.
