Enroute to Cheat Bridge from Elkins, Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad operated Cheat Mountain Salamander and its four car consist were struck by a loaded tandem axle log truck traveling northbound on Route 250 at Cheat Bridge. The rear two most passenger cars, loaded with passengers were struck broadside on the crossing, overturning both cars onto Route 250. Investigative reports indicate the log truck was traveling at speeds of excess of 60MPH and made no effort to brake as he approached the grade crossing. The driver of the truck was pronounced dead on scene and among the 67 on board passengers, only five were transported to the hospital with critical injuries. Route 250 in the area of Cheat Bridge remained closed for several hours following the accident, as cleanup crews re-railed the cars and removed the remains of the log truck and its load. Pictured above, the two passenger cars that were impacted sit in the siding below Cheat Bridge, waiting for further inspection and truck transport back to Belington.
This is dedicated (with permission) to the skilled and gifted photographer - Chase Gunnoe - who regularly posts and is on staff with RP. I believe he deserves a gallery showcasing his remarkable photos. This is for you Chase! (More great photos to come!)
