CROZET, Va. – One person is dead after an Amtrak train collided with a dump truck outside of Charlottesville, Virginia. The train was carrying members of Congress to a legislative retreat in West Virginia when the crash occurred. While there were no injuries reported by the train’s passengers, reports say that one occupants of the dump truck died in the crash and another suffered serious injuries.
Many of the lawmakers on-board the train at the time of the accident took to social media to give updates and offer thoughts and prayers for the drivers of the dump truck.
Our train heading to the GOP Retreat in West Virginia has been involved in an accident. I am safe but first responders are treating minor injuries on the train & treating the truck drivers. Praying….
— Sen. James Lankford (@SenatorLankford) January 31, 2018
I am in train that collided with a trash truck. I am okay. Getting word 3 people were in truck: one person died. Another lifeflighted. Third walked away. Please keep all in your prayers. 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/uycY6vKAvZ
— Rep. Vicky Hartzler (@RepHartzler) January 31, 2018
We’re fine, but our train hit a garbage truck. Members with medical training are assisting the drivers of the truck. pic.twitter.com/0I9jOwHTmb
— Rep. Greg Walden (@repgregwalden) January 31, 2018
According to reports, several lawmakers who are also doctors such as Reps. Brad Wenstrup, R-Ohio, Michael Burgess, R-Texas, Phil Roe, R-Tenn., and Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La. gave medical assistance in the aftermath of the crash.