Amtrak Train Collides With Tanker Truck Near Santa Maria Injuring Four

An Amtrak passenger train carrying about 260 people collided with a semi-truck hauling diesel fuel near Brown Road on Highway 1 in the Santa Maria area, resulting in major injuries to the truck driver and minor injuries to three train passengers. The collision, which occurred at a marked private railroad crossing, caused a significant diesel spill estimated between 1,500 to 3,500 gallons, leading to the closure of Highway 1 and suspension of train traffic in the area. Emergency responders, including fire departments, CHP, Amtrak Police, and hazardous materials crews, responded to the scene to manage the spill and assist the injured. While the train reportedly may have derailed, it remained upright, and passengers were kept on board until buses arrived to transport them. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, which severely impacted transportation routes and involved extensive emergency response efforts. The incident highlights safety concerns at railroad crossings and the challenges posed by hazardous material spills during accidents.