San Joaquin County, CA (March 22, 2026) – Two men were killed in a collision involving a pickup truck and a train on Saturday evening, March 21, at a railroad crossing on West Armstrong Road.
The crash occurred around 7:15 p.m. when a 2007 GMC pickup approached an active railroad crossing. Authorities said the driver accelerated and went through the lowered crossing arms before being struck by an oncoming train. The impact caused the truck to catch fire. The 29-year-old driver and a 37-year-old passenger, both from Lodi, were pronounced dead at the scene.
The train was traveling from Fresno to Pasco, Washington, at the time of the collision. The lead locomotive derailed, but no crew members were injured. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Why Are Railroad Crossing Arms Critical for Safety?
Railroad crossing arms are designed to warn drivers that a train is approaching. When these barriers are down or flashing, it signals that it is not safe to cross. Trains move quickly and cannot stop at short distances, making it dangerous to try to pass through.
Ignoring these warnings can lead to severe crashes. Even if a train appears far away, its speed can close the distance faster than expected. Drivers may also misjudge how long it will take to clear the tracks.
Crossing signals work together with lights and bells to alert drivers and pedestrians. Waiting until the signals are clear and the arms are fully raised helps reduce the risk of a collision at railroad crossings.
