“NTSB Investigates Two Fatal Vehicle-Train Collisions in Florida; Brightline Urged to Enhance Rail Safety Measures”

Accident – death – Obituary News : **Three People killed in Separate Vehicle-Train Collisions in Florida**

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently investigating two separate vehicle-train collisions that occurred at the same high-speed rail crossing in Melbourne, Florida this week, resulting in the tragic deaths of three people. The incidents involved Brightline trains and have raised concerns about safety measures at level crossings.

The first collision occurred on Wednesday, January 10, when a Brightline train struck a Honda Element SUV at the intersection. The driver of the SUV was killed, and three others were injured in the accident. Surveillance footage obtained by ABC Miami affiliate WPLG showed the SUV driving past a waiting vehicle and then going around the crossing arm and flashing lights. Both vehicles were traveling west on WH Jackson Street.

Just two days later, on Friday, January 12, another collision took place at the same intersection. This time, a Brightline train collided with a Chevrolet Avalanche pickup, resulting in the deaths of both the driver and passenger. According to Melbourne police, the vehicle was attempting to escape the oncoming train.

Following these tragic incidents, the NTSB has announced that it will conduct a safety investigation into the “fatal railway crossing accident.” The investigation will include an examination of the crash history, including Wednesday’s collision. NTSB investigators have already arrived at the scene and will spend several days gathering information and documenting the crime scene.

A preliminary report on the accidents is expected to be released within 30 days, while the final results may take between 12 to 24 months. The NTSB aims to better understand the safety issues at this particular crossing and consider ways to prevent or mitigate similar accidents in the future.

In response to Friday’s collision, Melbourne Mayor Paul Alfrey has urged motorists to adhere to safety measures at level crossings and emphasized the importance of not driving around when the crossing arm is down. He has also announced plans to launch a public safety campaign in collaboration with Brightline officials.

Brightline, Florida’s high-speed rail service, has been providing passenger service between Miami and Orlando via Melbourne since late September. However, there have been two additional fatal incidents involving Brightline trains in Melbourne since the service was launched. In October, a pedestrian was struck and killed at a railroad crossing, while in December, another pedestrian lost their life in a similar accident.

Brightline had previously conducted a public safety campaign before the launch of the service, as the increased train traffic in Melbourne posed new safety challenges. Mayor Alfrey has highlighted the need for another “aggressive” public safety campaign specifically focusing on rail safety. He has also suggested the introduction of increased barriers, such as quad gates, at the high-risk crossing.

As the investigation into these tragic accidents continues, it is hoped that the findings will shed light on the safety issues at the rail crossing and lead to effective measures to prevent such incidents in the future..