No injuries reported; investigation into cause is underway as rail line clears.
PAWNEE, Okla. — A BNSF freight train struck two unoccupied vehicles on the tracks near the Ash Street crossing in Pawnee on Wednesday morning, according to local authorities. No injuries were reported from the collision, which occurred at approximately 10:15 a.m.
Pawnee police and fire departments responded to the scene. Officials confirmed both vehicles, a sedan and a pickup truck, were empty at the time of the impact. The crossing’s warning lights and gates were reportedly active at the time of the incident.
Investigators are now working to determine why the vehicles were abandoned on the railway. “We are investigating the circumstances that led to the vehicles being on the track,” said Pawnee Police Chief Mike Smith in a brief statement.
This incident occurred on a key freight corridor. While this specific line does not host Amtrak passenger services, the collision highlights the ongoing safety concerns at railway crossings that affect the entire U.S. rail network. Delays on freight lines can cause cascading schedule disruptions for passenger rail services, like the Heartland Flyer, that share tracks with freight operators elsewhere in the state.
Rail traffic was halted in the area for several hours for the investigation and cleanup. “Our crews are working to restore service as quickly and safely as possible,” an BNSF spokesperson said. Officials expect the line to fully reopen by late Wednesday afternoon following a final safety inspection.