PAGE, N.D. — A fatal collision occurred Thursday, Oct. 9, involving a combine and a BNSF train approximately five miles northwest of Page, claiming the life of the combine operator.
Troopers with the North Dakota Highway Patrol confirmed the deceased is a 33-year-old man from Colgate, N.D., who was found inside the combine following the incident. The collision ignited the lead engine of the train and caused about 20 train cars to derail. BNSF crews are currently on-site to initiate cleanup efforts, which may continue for several days.
Around 11 a.m., the 2020 John Deere combine was traveling south on a township road when it struck the westbound lead engine. The crossing, while marked, lacks active control measures.
The impact resulted in a fire in the lead locomotive, and significant cargo was spilled into adjacent fields, according to law enforcement officials. Both the train's engineer and conductor, who managed to brace for impact, were unharmed before the fire ignited.
“Both crew members were able to alert the combine operator by using the train's whistle and activating emergency brakes,” said Capt. Bryan Niewind of the North Dakota Highway Patrol.
Officials are urging caution at uncontrolled crossings, reminding drivers to remain vigilant, particularly during the harvest season.
133rd Avenue Southeast will be closed in both directions for 34 to 48 hours as cleanup and investigation continue. Authorities are also assessing whether the train's onboard camera was operational to aid in the investigation, which is ongoing.