Three Sent To Hospital In Three Separate Incidents

BNSF Train Hits Vehicle

On Nov. 14, at approximately 08:35 a.m., dispatch received a 911 call stating a BNSF train struck a vehicle at a crossing near mm 546 on US Highway 2. A single vehicle, with one occupant, was struck in the front passenger quarter sending the vehicle into a ravine on the south side of the tracks. The driver was transported to the hospital.

The west bound train was traveling approximately 58 miles per hour when it struck the BNSF vehicle. Local first responders, ambulance crew, fire rescue, and additional law enforcement arrived on scene quickly and worked efficiently to extract the injured driver from the ravine. Montana Highway Patrol and BNSF Officials continue to investigate the accident scene.

Semi-Trailer Incident Near Hinsdale

On Nov. 9, at 4:20 p.m., a 911 call was received regarding an accident involving a semi-tractor trailer carrying explosive material that had slid off US Highway 2, at mile marker 504, between Hinsdale and Saco.

The semi slid off the highway through the south barrow pit into a wheat field approximately 75 feet, where it came to rest on its right side. A law enforcement passerby stopped to render aid, assisting the two occupants of the semi from the overturned cab. At this time, 911 was made aware there were explosives being transported.

First responders from Hinsdale responded and arrived on scene. EMS arrived and transported a female occupant for minor injuries. The driver of the semi remained on scene assisting law enforcement with communication with the transporting agency and their emergency response. A perimeter was established and traffic was diverted north of US Highway 2.

Multiple law enforcement agencies worked seamlessly to coordinate and understand the hazardous materials on board and the steps necessary to protect people and property. Cleanup and vehicle recovery was conducted by Thompson and Sons.

During this event another minor accident occurred that involved another semi-tractor trailer and a Valley County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle. One deputy was transported to the local hospital for precautionary measures. US Highway 2 was reopened for traffic at 11 p.m.

VCSO is very appreciative of local DES coordinator Rick Seiler, the state DES coordinator, Billings Police Department bomb squad member Sergeant Peterson, P&P Officer Wade Riden, Montana Highway Patrol and our local ambulance responders. The Hinsdale Fire department deserves to be singled out and applauded for their swift response and professionalism. The volunteer first responders in Valley County cease to amaze me with their selfless attitude and response no matter what weather conditions or challenging circumstances they face.