Atascosa County, TX (February 21, 2026) – A 63-year-old man lost his life Friday morning after his pickup truck was struck by a train near Interstate 37 in Atascosa County.
The crash occurred around 6:30 a.m. on February 20, near mile marker 93 on I-37. According to reports, a 2022 Dodge Ram was traveling southbound when, for unknown reasons, it left the roadway. The truck entered the center median, then went down a steep embankment, and landed on railroad tracks below. Officials said the vehicle became airborne before striking the rails. No train was present at the time of the initial crash.
At approximately 7:46 a.m., a northbound Union Pacific train collided with the disabled pickup, which remained on the tracks. The driver and sole occupant, identified as Eloy Marroquin, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available.
Our hearts are with the family and friends mourning this loss.
What Happens When Vehicles Leave the Roadway Near Railroad Crossings
Crashes involving both roadways and railroad tracks often involve multiple stages. In some cases, a vehicle first leaves the highway due to loss of control, mechanical failure, or another sudden event. If the roadway runs above train tracks, steep embankments can increase the severity of the initial crash.
When a vehicle becomes disabled on tracks, the situation can quickly turn deadly. Trains require a long distance to stop, and engineers may not see an obstruction in time to avoid impact. Even when crossings are clearly marked, tracks located below elevated highways may not be immediately visible to drivers who veer off the road.
High-speed corridors like Interstate 37 carry steady traffic throughout the morning hours. Drivers are urged to remain alert, reduce distractions, and maintain control of their vehicles, especially near overpasses and railroad crossings where unexpected hazards may exist.
