Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Driver Killed as Brightline Train Hits Car That Bypassed Gates in Rockledge

Firefighters in a truck directly ahead saw the car bypass the U.S. 1 gates, highlighting recurring safety concerns at the crossing.

Overview

  • Officials said the motorist drove around lowered arms and flashing lights before being struck by a Brightline train carrying 188 passengers.
  • Brevard County Fire Rescue reported a fire truck was directly in front of the sedan when the driver went around the gates.
  • The impact split the vehicle in half and ignited a fire that killed the lone occupant, according to on-scene accounts.
  • Rockledge Police and fire-rescue crews secured the area as aerial images showed extensive debris along the tracks.
  • A Brightline spokesperson urged drivers to obey crossing signals, while locals described the U.S. 1 site as prone to repeated crashes; no passenger injuries were reported.