Tragic Train Collision Claims Six Lives in Plant City: Latest Updates

In a heart-wrenching incident that unfolded in Plant City, a freight train collided with a family’s SUV, resulting in the loss of six lives. The victims’ identities have been revealed, shedding light on the devastating impact of this tragedy. In this article, we will delve into the details of the incident and the aftermath, while also discussing rail safety concerns and the victims involved.

Plant City Train Collision Claims Six Lives

The horrific collision took place at approximately 6:45 p.m. at the intersection of US-92 and Jim Lefler Circle. A Cadillac Escalade, carrying a family, was struck by a freight train traveling at a speed of 55 mph. The family was en route to a quinceañera, a joyous occasion that quickly turned into a nightmare.

Sheriff Chad Chronister, visibly affected by the tragic scene, expressed his sorrow, saying, “As you can imagine, the carnage that’s created when these two collide. The SUV, we can see from the video begins to catapult and flip violently several times before it’s landed.”

The impact of the collision was so severe that the victims were violently ejected from the SUV, resulting in the tragic deaths of six individuals. The identities of the deceased victims have been released:

1. Jose G. Hernandez, 52 (Driver)
2. Enedelia Hernandez, 51
3. Jakub A. Lopez, 17
4. Alyssa Hernandez, 17
5. Anaelia Hernandez, 22
6. Julian Hernandez, 9

The only surviving victim, 23-year-old Guillermo E. Gama III, was the front passenger in the SUV. He remains in critical condition at Lakeland Regional Health, as per the latest report.

A Glimpse into the Horrific Scene

Sheriff Chronister described the scene as nothing short of horrific, likening the family’s SUV to a “soft drink can that was smashed.” He further remarked on the emotional toll of the incident, saying, “I think anyone who has seen the carnage that’s been created, whenever you compound that with children lost their lives here, maybe an entire family, maybe an entire family lost their life here tonight, we’re all visibly shaken.”

Remarkably, no one aboard the train suffered injuries during the collision, according to officials.

Rail Safety Concerns and Road Ownership

The absence of crossing arms at the train crossing has raised questions about rail safety. Michael Callanan, a rail safety expert, weighed in on the matter, asserting that the road where the collision occurred was not intended for public traffic.

“This road is a privately maintained road, an access road to a home,” Callanan explained. “There’s two homes back there I believe. It’s not a public thoroughfare road; it’s just a road to get to the house. Therefore, it’s not required to have those warning devices there because it’s privately owned.”

As investigations into this tragic incident continue, questions surrounding rail safety and road ownership will undoubtedly be addressed.

The train collision in Plant City has left a community grieving the loss of six lives, with one survivor fighting for their life. As we reflect on this heart-wrenching event, it is essential to prioritize rail safety and address concerns regarding privately owned access roads. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families affected by this devastating tragedy