1 dead after train carrying Republican lawmakers crashes into truck in Virginia
A chartered Amtrak train carrying several GOP lawmakers crashed into a trash truck that was on the tracks south of Crozet, Virginia, Wednesday morning, according to the Associated Press.
No lawmakers were injured, but at least one person in the truck was killed, the AP reported.
"The weather was sunny and clear at the time of the incident around 11:20 a.m," according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski. "The temperature was within a few degrees of freezing. There was no snow on the ground."
The train was taking the legislators to a Republican retreat in West Virginia at The Greenbrier Resort in the town of White Sulfur Springs. Crozet is about 15 miles to the west of Charlottesville.
Several representatives took to Twitter to announce that they were unharmed and offered prayers for those who sustained injuries. The train was left partially derailed, a GOP aide told the AP.
"The train carrying GOP members to our retreat had a collision, but Rebecca and I are both okay. Security and doctors on board are helping secure the scene and treat injuries," Rep. Bradley Byrne, R-Ala. said on Twitter.
Please take a moment to say a quick prayer for those injured in the train accident this morning, especially those in the truck that collided with the train.
— Rep. Bradley Byrne (@RepByrne) January 31, 2018
"We're fine, but our train hit a garbage truck. Members with medical training are assisting the drivers of the truck," said Rep. Greg Walden, R-Ore.
We're fine, but our train hit a garbage truck. Members with medical training are assisting the drivers of the truck. pic.twitter.com/0I9jOwHTmb
— Rep. Greg Walden (@repgregwalden) January 31, 2018
Vice President Mike Pence said on Twitter that he was getting "regular updates" on the accident.
Getting regular updates on the Amtrak crash involving members of Congress and their families. Praying for all involved & grateful for the swift action of first responders. @POTUS and I will continue to monitor closely. I'm heading to WV later today.
— Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) January 31, 2018
White House Director of Social Media Dan Scavino, Jr. also offered condolences on behalf of the White House to those impacted.
