Morris, IL – A serious train crash in Gardner Saturday night was caused by a 95-year-old woman who mistakenly drove onto railroad tracks after leaving a local pub, according to officials.
Gardner Mayor Mike Serena said the woman, from the Coal City/Diamond area, was leaving Everybuddies, a local pub, when she thought she was turning onto Jefferson Street. Instead, she drove onto the railroad tracks from North Jackson Street and traveled a short distance before stopping. A family member was able to help her exit the vehicle just before a train struck it head-on.
No injuries were reported, but the collision caused major delays and damage to crossing safety equipment. The incident occurred near the intersection of North Jackson and West Jefferson streets.
According to officials, train traffic resumed around 11 p.m. Saturday, but the Jackson Street crossing will remain closed to vehicles until repairs can be made to the safety gates. Crews are working to reopen the crossing later today once the necessary equipment is restored.
Authorities are urging drivers to avoid the area and use alternate routes until further notice.
