Salem traffic slowed today after train collision Wednesday night

SALEM – Traffic was slowed nearly to a stop in Salem after two Norfolk-Southern trains collided Wednesday evening.

At least 20 cars were left leaning off the tracks, police said.

Railroad crossings at South Lincoln Avenue, Depot Road, New Garden Avenue and Pershing Street were all closed this morning as cleanup and repairs were begin done. Only the West State Street crossing was open to traffic this morning.

Salem Police Chief Robert W. Floor said the city hopes to open most of the crossings by the end of the day. Floor added the New Garden Avenue crossing will likely be closed for “an extended period of time.”

The driver of the first train reported seeing a man on the track and attempted to stop quickly. The first train was bumped from behind by a second. No injuries have been reported.

For the complete story, see Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com.