An Amazon delivery van was severed in half by an Amtrak train in Ixonia, Wisconsin back in November 2021, with dramatic dashcam footage released recently. The driver, Alexander Evans, remarkably escaped without injury.
What happened: Evans, hard of hearing in one ear, did not detect the train's approach in time to fully clear the tracks. "I felt the airbags, I didn't know what to feel, to be honest with you," Evans recounted to WISN.
The collision occurred as Evans was crossing the tracks on River Valley Road. There were no signals, lights, or warning sounds at the crossing to alert him of the approaching train, which struck the vehicle as he attempted to accelerate away.
The aftermath: The harrowing incident was not only caught on video, but also left Evans and the public stunned by his survival. "I still can't believe it myself," said Evans.
Impact on the driver: Strikingly, the collision took place on Evans's 33rd birthday, and despite being sore from the impact, he lived to celebrate the holiday with an extra sense of gratitude.
Wider implications: The lack of warning mechanisms at the crossing has raised concerns. The incident highlights the potential need for improved safety measures at rail crossings, especially those without visual or auditory signals to prevent such close calls in the future.