June 19, 2024__The Hardin Co Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a semi-truck/trailer versus train crash that occurred on the east/west line of CSX Railroad in Mt. Victory.

The crash occurred at approximately noon at the St Rt 31/Main St crossing. The truck driver, Richard Lavander of Ontario Canada, attempted to drive around the crossbuck that was down to warn of a nearby traveling train. As the truck went around the crossbuck an eastbound CSX train struck the truck.

The impact separated the truck and trailer, pushing the truck approximately one quarter of a mile east of the original impact.

Traffic was diverted from St Rt 31 while the wreckage was investigated and cleared. Two drivers in the train were uninjured while the driver of the truck was transported to Hardin Memorial Hospital with minor injuries. 

The driver of the truck, Richard Lavander, was cited for disobeying a railroad crossing device.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by Mt. Victory Fire/EMS, CSX Railroad and Minich’s Towing.

The crash remains under investigation