WASHINGTON, Mo. — A man from Washington, Missouri, was pronounced dead at the scene of a train-vehicle collision Thursday night near the city of Berger, the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) said.
Edward Ocheskey, 51, reportedly made a left turn onto the train tracks near Highway B at County Road 304 where his vehicle was stuck, according to MSHP. The Union Pacific train struck the rear of Ocheskey's vehicle on the tracks.
Hermann EMS, around a 13-minute drive from Berger, responded to the scene and reported Ocheskey dead at the scene at around 9:47 p.m. Officials reported the crossbar, lights, and bell were all active and in working order at the time of the crash.
Norfolk Southern previously shared safety tips with 5 On Your Side in honor of National Rail Safety Week.
"Unfortunately, we have people struck all too often who are just walking down the tracks, often on their way to school with their back to a train, and they can't hear it, and a tragedy occurs," said Vice President and Chief Safety Officer John Fleps.
National data from the Association of American Railroads in 2023 shows for all railroads since the year 2000 fatalities declined 71%. According to the 2023 statistics from the Federal Railroad Administration, Missouri and Illinois both rank in the top 20 for the most train accidents and injuries.
Fleps said the best thing drives can do is stay alert and clear of train tracks. If they see a problem or an emergency, they should call 911 and look for a blue and white emergency sign. It's the notification system on all railroad tracks.
