Kenosha County, WI — A 78-year-old Wheatland man was killed Sunday morning when his pickup truck collided with a southbound train at a rural crossing in southeast Wisconsin, according to local authorities.
Crash Occurred at Unguarded Farm Crossing
The fatal crash happened around 10:45 a.m. on August 3, 2025, in the 3300 block of County Highway W, just south of County Highway JB, along the Canadian National Railway tracks.
Officials say the truck was crossing from a private farm access road when the train struck it. The access road is marked with a stop sign but is not equipped with gates, bells, or flashing lights.
Victim Pronounced Dead at the Scene
The driver and sole occupant of the pickup, identified as Leonard A. Lois, 78, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Kenosha County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Authorities have not released further details about the moments leading up to the crash or the speed of the train at impact as reported.
Safety Concerns at Unguarded Crossings
The accident highlights the dangers of unguarded rural railroad crossings, which often lack automated warning systems. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) reports that such crossings account for a disproportionate share of train-vehicle collisions nationwide.
Safety experts recommend:
- Always stop, look, and listen before crossing tracks
- Avoid crossing when visibility is limited
- Never assume a train is far away due to its apparent slow speed
- Obey all posted signage, even at private crossings
Investigation Underway
The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department and Canadian National Railway Police are investigating the crash. No injuries were reported among train crew members, and no hazardous materials were involved.
Funeral arrangements for Leonard A. Lois have not yet been announced.
Should rural rail crossings be required to have gates and warning lights? Share your opinion in the comments below.
