ROCKLEDGE, FLA. (WSVN) – Officials said a car went around a lowered railroad barrier, leading to a tragic collision with a train on Friday in Central Florida.
The split second decision led to tragedy and a fireball on the tracks.
“I heard a loud explosion, seen a big cloud of black smoke, and then we seen the train pounding to a stop, and realized it was a car,” said Donnie Anderson, who witnessed the scene.
Brevard County Fire Rescue said a fire truck was actually in front of the sedan that was struck.
Firefighters inside the truck watched as the driver drove around the lowered arms and flashing lights.
Moments later, they watched as it was hit by a Brightline train carrying 188 passengers.
“It sounded like a lightning bolt, basically hit somewhere near the office, and then I could