Train crashes into semi in Gwinnett County; several rail cars off tracks

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — A train slammed into a semi-truck in Duluth and caused several box cars to come loose.

Channel 2′s Tony Thomas learned the crash happened just before 9:30 a.m. Wednesday along Buford Highway just north of Pleasant Hill Road in Duluth. The road has since reopened.

Thomas said a flat-bed trailer got stuck on the tracks when the train smashed into it.

“I see their tires screeching, like trying to move to get away from the train. By the time, I saw them get out of the car and just run and after they ran, I saw the train, ‘boom,’ just hit it,” a witness said.

Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services said 20 to 23 cars derailed, two of which were carrying hazardous materials. HazMat teams confirmed that there were no spills.

“The best way I can explain it is like someone taking confetti and throwing it into the air and that’s what all of the 18-wheelers on the back of the train were doing,” another witness said.

The conductor, engineer and truck driver were taken to the hospital with minor injuries. A concerned citizen also suffered a minor injury while attempting to provide assistance.

Crews have been working all day to remove the overturned cars. Avoid the area.

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