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Kingstree, SC (April 1, 2026) – A crash involving a train and a garbage truck was reported on Wednesday morning, April 1, near North Williamsburg County Highway, just north of Kingstree.
Emergency units responded to the scene near 676 N Williamsburg County Highway, about three miles outside the city. When crews arrived, they found the garbage truck pushed off the tracks, while an Amtrak train remained upright further down the line.
The garbage truck driver, who was alone in the vehicle, managed to get out with minor injuries. The driver was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. No passengers or crew members on the train were hurt in the incident.
Officials said the train suffered heavy damage and is no longer operational. Buses were arranged to transport passengers to the Williamsburg County Recovery Center as travel plans were disrupted.
The crash occurred at a private crossing without crossarms or warning signals. Additional details about how the collision occurred have not yet been released.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available. Our thoughts are with those injured as they continue to recover.
How Train and Vehicle Accidents at Private Crossings Can Occur
Train-related accidents at private crossings can occur when safety features are limited. Unlike public crossings, some private crossings lack gates, lights, or warning signals to alert drivers to an approaching train.
Visibility can also affect how these incidents unfold. Trees, buildings, or the angle of the crossing may make it harder for drivers to see an oncoming train in time. In some cases, drivers may misjudge a train’s speed or distance, leading to a crash.
Vehicle size can also be a factor. Larger vehicles, such as trucks, may take longer to clear tracks, increasing the risk if a train is approaching. Conditions like road surface and track elevation may further impact how quickly a driver can move across safely.
