Train-vehicle collision injures four Union Pacific workers

# Train-Vehicle Collision Injures Four at Milwaukee Rail Yard

Four Union Pacific employees suffered minor injuries Monday when a train struck a truck at the Butler Rail Yard near 199th and Hampton Avenue in Milwaukee. The collision occurred around 9:30 a.m. when the truck driver's view was blocked as he attempted to cross the tracks; the train was traveling at just under 10 miles per hour at the time. All four workers were hospitalized, and the scene was cleared by 2 p.m.

The Federal Railroad Administration is investigating whether Union Pacific followed proper safety protocols during the incident. According to Union Pacific, the company is cooperating fully with federal investigators as they review the circumstances surrounding the collision. The railroad has emphasized that blocked visibility at crossings remains a significant hazard, particularly in rail yards where multiple vehicles and trains operate in close proximity.

The accident underscores ongoing concerns about rail crossing safety in Milwaukee, where approximately 700 railroad crossings exist throughout the region. Union Pacific recommends that drivers never attempt to cross tracks when their view is obstructed and reminds motorists that trains require more than a mile to stop even after emergency brakes are applied. The company urges drivers to look both ways, proceed only when certain their entire vehicle can clear the crossing, and never drive around lowered gates.

Union Pacific continues to investigate the incident. Residents who witness unsafe activity at railroad crossings are encouraged to call Union Pacific's safety hotline at 888-877-7267.