One adult has been killed and nine children and another adult injured after the church van they were riding in crashed through a railroad crossing gate and into the side of a train in southwest Ohio.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol said that a van carrying students enrolled in Vacation Bible School at a Church at Mayfield in Middletown approached the crossing gate in the city of Middletown. Authorities indicate that arms of the gates were down and it is still unclear why the driver continued and crashed the Ford passenger van into the train.
Police said that the ages of the children were between 7 – 10 years of age.
The fatality in the crash is identified as Jan Martin, 62. Martin died as a result of injuries sustained in the accident. The female driver, also 62, has not been identified and suffered non-life threatening injuries.
The nondenominational church held a prayer vigil on Wednesday night to honor Jan Martin. Classes for the rest of the week were canceled.
Getting to the facts about just what happened in a tragic accident such as this one can be complicated. It may take a long time before the investigation is complete and before there are any real answers.
If you or a loved one has been in an accident involving train, or any other kind of accident, call the offices of Howell Law today. Before you sign a statement, or settle with any insurance company, it is a good idea to get legal representation as soon as possible.
We will take the time listen to the details of your case and can help you figure out the best way to proceed. Call today for a free consultation and legal analysis. Someone is available to answer your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year.