Driver of semi-tractor hospitalized after train rams into passenger side in Pike County

NEW SALEM, Ill. — A train crashed into a semi-tractor Wednesday afternoon in Pike County, and the driver of the semi-tractor was hospitalized.

The Pike County Sheriff’s Department responded to a crash at 1:01 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17 at 340^th Avenue, approximately a half-mile south of County Highway 2 in New Salem Township. The initial investigation revealed a semi-tractor and trailer carrying feed operated by Blake Pulis, 22, of Barry was traveling south on 340^th Avenue, which intersects with the railroad tracks.

As the semi-tractor crossed the tracks, it was struck on the passenger side by an eastbound train. The semi-tractor and train came to a stop approximately 500 yards east of the initial point of impact. Pulis was ejected from the truck upon impact and later airlifted to a hospital.

The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and the Norfolk Southern Police. Assisting at the scene were the Baylis Fire Department, Pike County EMS, Norfolk Southern Railroad and Air Evac.