BELMONT, Gaston County, N.C., Oct. 22, 2026 — One person was hospitalized on Wednesday morning, October 21, after a vehicle collided with a train in Belmont. The crash shut down Acme Road in both directions near Cason Street.
The collision happened around 6:30 a.m. where Acme Road meets Cason Street, off Perfection Avenue. An SUV reportedly struck the side of a Charlotte & Western train, leaving the front end of the vehicle damaged, based on conditions observed at the scene.
Gaston County EMS said one person was taken to a hospital. That patient's condition has not been released.
The Belmont Police Department is investigating what led to the crash. Authorities have not said whether the vehicle or the train was moving at the time of impact, or what role, if any, weather or visibility played. Despite the road closure, the crash did not create major traffic backups because of where it happened.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
More on Crashes in Belmont, NC
This train crash happened on Acme Road in Belmont, NC. We cover crashes across Gaston County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Gaston County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What steps should a driver take after a vehicle hits a train?
Stay away from the tracks, call 911 if it has not already been done, and wait for emergency crews before trying to move the vehicle. Even a train that appears stopped may still be live or part of ongoing rail traffic, so keep a safe distance.
What injuries commonly result from vehicle-train collisions?
These crashes usually cause broken bones, head and neck injuries, and internal injuries, since trains carry far more weight and momentum than cars or SUVs. Even a low-speed impact with a train can cause serious harm to vehicle occupants.
What usually causes crashes between vehicles and trains?
Common factors include misjudging a train's speed or distance, driving around lowered crossing gates, and reduced visibility at crossings without full signal equipment. Distraction and unfamiliarity with a crossing can also play a role.
Does speed change the outcome of these crashes?
Yes. Higher speed increases how much force a vehicle absorbs on impact and reduces the time a driver has to stop or react at a crossing, which can turn a near miss into a serious collision.
What to Do After a Train Collision in Belmont, NC
If you are involved in or witness a crash at a rail crossing, move to a safe area away from the tracks and call 911 right away. Anyone involved should get checked by a medical provider even if injuries seem minor at first, since impacts with trains can cause internal injuries that are not immediately obvious.
It also helps to note the time, location, and any signal or gate activity you observed, since crossing equipment and visibility usually become part of what investigators look at. Cooperate with Belmont police as they work to determine what happened, and follow up with your own doctor in the days afterward if any pain, stiffness, or other symptoms appear.
