A collision between a Norfolk Southern train and a tractor-trailer in Greeneville resulted in significant damage to the train and the trailer being hauled by the semi-truck. WVLT News reported that the crash occurred at approximately 11 a.m. Monday near the intersection of Snapps Ferry Road and Coile Street. The tractor-trailer was turning left over the tracks and reportedly failed to yield to the oncoming train, leading to the collision.
The impact caused major damage to the train engine and the trailer, although the truck's cab remained intact. According to the Greeneville Police Department, as detailed in a statement to WBIR, no serious injuries were reported despite the severity of the accident. The accident's force led to the trailer overturning, but it was empty at the time of the crash, thus potentially averting a larger catastrophe.
Police initially responded to the incident with reports of injuries but discovered upon arrival that no one was injured, as confirmed by News Channel 11. While the truck driver was left unharmed, the train’s conductor reported wrist pain to the authorities and was evaluated on the scene. Norfolk Southern also confirmed the lack of injuries to both the truck driver and the train crew involved in the incident.
The crash led to a temporary closure of Coile Street to facilitate cleanup, although Snapps Ferry Road traffic was not expected to be impacted, according to Greeneville Police Department Captain Tim Davis. The accident occurred despite the railroad crossing flashers being in proper working order at the time. Norfolk Southern police have been notified, and the scene was anticipated to be clear before the evening commute. Heather Sipe, Director of Greeneville Greene County EMA, provided additional details to News Channel 11 regarding the status of the cleanup operations and the functionality of the crossing indicators.
