An early Sunday run of Amtrak's Mardi Gras Service from Mobile to New Orleans turned tense in a hurry when the train struck a semi-truck hauling cars south of Mobile, knocking part of the train off the rails and shutting down a stretch of U.S. Highway 90 near Grand Bay. All 48 passengers made it out without reported injuries, several crew members were treated at the scene, and the train was ultimately taken back to Mobile so customers could be re-routed.
What Amtrak Said
In a statement to WALA, Amtrak said Train No. 23 was headed from Mobile to New Orleans at about 7:20 a.m. when a semi-trailer with an auto rack came into contact with the train on CSX tracks south of Mobile. The railroad reported no injuries among the 48 passengers and confirmed that several crew members were treated at the scene. Riders were given snack packs and water while Amtrak arranged to bring the train back to Mobile.
Where It Happened And The Immediate Scene
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and local responders shut down U.S. Highway 90 at Alabama Highway 188 in Grand Bay while troopers investigated, according to WLOX. Officials said two people from the truck were pulled out and treated for minor injuries, and that Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch, CSX and Grand Bay Fire and Rescue were all on scene.
Route History And Safety Record
The Mardi Gras Service returned in August 2025 as a twice-daily Gulf Coast run between Mobile and New Orleans, and local coverage has already flagged deadly incidents along the line since its comeback. NOLA.com reported that multiple fatal crashes have taken place on the route since it reopened, a pattern that has pushed grade-crossing safety along the corridor back into the spotlight.
Ridership, Safety Push And Next Steps
State and local leaders have pointed to strong demand for the service - the route topped 100,000 riders in under eight months - even as they move ahead with efforts to cut crossing risks, according to AL Reporter. Transit reporting notes that the Southern Rail Commission and local partners are considering both short-term outreach and longer-term fixes such as targeted crossing upgrades and adding physical bollards to keep drivers from slipping around lowered gates. Mass Transit reported that officials are looking at federal grant funding to help pay for those improvements.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency says it is investigating the crash, and Amtrak is working with local authorities as crews clear the scene and work to restore service. WALA reported that the roadway could remain closed for an extended period while investigators continue their work.
