The driver of a logging truck was killed Wednesday afternoon after being stuck by a Union Pacific train, which was running on a track with no active warning device, authorities said.
Roman F. Moore, 43, of Simsboro, Louisiana was pronounced dead at the scene by the Bossier Parish Coroner.
Troopers say Moore was traveling westbound on Industrial Drive near LA Highway 3 when he drove over a railroad crossing with no active warning devices – the crossing had no flashing lights, crossing arms, gates, or bells.
As Moore crossed over the tracks, a southbound Union Pacific freight train struck the passenger side of the tractor then pushed it less than a mile before stopping. Moore was not wearing his seatbelt.
State troopers say a railroad crossing with nothing but a railroad sign and stop sign, like the crossing on Industrial Drive, is common in rural areas. They advise motorists to look and listen for trains when approaching a railroad crossing regardless of signage.
A routine toxicology Union Pacific investigators are still looking into exactly what happened. Police say Moore had just unloaded at Anthony Chip Mill near Hwy 3 in Plain Dealing.
There were no reported injuries aboard the train.
Sources