Frenchtown, MT (April 20, 2026) – Two people were injured early on Sunday morning, April 19, after a vehicle collided with a train in Frenchtown. The crash occurred around 4:51 a.m. on Beckwith Street, just north of Mullan Road.
Emergency units arrived to find both occupants trapped inside a heavily damaged vehicle. Crews worked to remove the most seriously injured passenger, who was quickly taken to a nearby hospital. The second passenger was also taken to the same hospital for treatment.
Officials reported no injuries among those on the train, and the freight being carried was not damaged. Additional details about the cause of the crash or the identities of those involved have not been released.
The crash remains under investigation.
Our thoughts are with those affected as they continue to recover.
What Risks Are Associated with Vehicle and Train Collisions?
Collisions between vehicles and trains often result in severe damage due to the size and weight of trains. Even at lower speeds, trains require long distances to stop, making it difficult to avoid impact once a vehicle is on the tracks.
Rail crossings can present challenges, especially in low-light conditions like early morning hours. Drivers may have limited visibility or may not notice warning signals in time. Staying alert and slowing down near crossings can help reduce risk.
When a vehicle becomes trapped or stalled on tracks, the danger increases quickly. In many cases, emergency response focuses on removing occupants as fast as possible due to the potential for serious injury from the force of the collision.
