Semi-truck split in half after being struck by train in Ottawa County; no injuries reported

ZEELAND TWP. — Emergency crews are responding to a major collision involving a semi-truck and a freight train that left a trailer split in half and blocked a local intersection in Ottawa County.

According to preliminary reports from the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office, the crash occurred when a semi-truck, driven by a 61-year-old man from Hart, Michigan, attempted to turn northbound onto 76th Avenue from westbound Chicago Drive. During the turn, the semi became stranded across the railroad tracks.

An eastbound train traveling along the line struck the trailer attached to the semi. Fortunately, the driver managed to jump from the cab before the moment of impact and suffered no injuries.

The collision sheared the semi-trailer in two, scattering debris across the area and prompting a massive cleanup effort. The impact also disabled the train's lead engine.

Ottawa County Haz-Mat units were dispatched to the scene to assess and manage a suspected fuel leak from the damaged train engine.

Authorities warned that 76th Avenue will remain blocked at the tracks until a replacement locomotive arrives to tow the disabled train. Responders are expected to remain on site for an extended period to complete the hazardous materials assessment and clear the wreckage.

The crash was the second train collision in the same area. A Hudsonville man escaped with only minor injuries on Tuesday afternoon after his SUV collided with an oncoming train just 2.5 miles east of the Thursday night crash.

Read More: Driver escapes serious injury after SUV struck by train

The incident remains under active investigation. Anyone with relevant information or who witnessed the crash is urged to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office.

— Submitted by the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office. To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.