Harvard, IL — A man is in critical condition after his SUV was struck by a freight train early Thursday morning in Harvard. The violent collision left the vehicle engulfed in flames as first responders rushed to the scene.
Early Morning Crash
Emergency crews were called to the railroad crossing on McGuire Road around 2:30 a.m. According to officials, the SUV was already on fire when firefighters arrived, with flames consuming the vehicle near the crossing.
Key details from the scene include:
- The crash occurred in the early morning hours of Thursday.
- The SUV caught fire immediately after being struck.
- The driver was critically injured and transported for emergency medical care.
- The train itself did not derail, and officials confirmed it was not carrying hazardous materials.
Response From Officials
Authorities told MyStateline that the collision remains under investigation, though early findings indicate no hazardous cargo was involved, easing fears of a wider emergency.
“The SUV was engulfed in flames near the crossing,” officials said, describing the intense scene that greeted first responders.
The driver’s identity has not yet been released.
Ongoing Investigation
Police and fire officials continue to examine the circumstances leading up to the crash. Investigators are expected to review whether visibility, driver awareness, or malfunctioning signals played a role in the incident.
Train collisions are rare but often severe, with the combination of speed, weight, and limited stopping ability making accidents especially dangerous.
Community Impact
Local residents in Harvard, a small Illinois city near the Wisconsin border, have expressed concern about safety at rural crossings. Many crossings in the region lack extensive barriers, relying on flashing lights or crossbucks to warn drivers.
This incident has renewed questions about whether more safety measures should be installed in areas where drivers may be at higher risk of misjudging train movements.
The Road Ahead
The driver remains hospitalized in critical condition as of Thursday afternoon. Officials say more details will be released as the investigation continues.
What are your thoughts on train crossing safety in rural Illinois? Share your views in the comments below.
