CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Multiple EMS and law enforcement agencies are in Refugio county investigating a train crash involving an 18 wheeler.
The Refugio County Sheriff's Office stated the accident happened on US Hwy. 77, just north of the Hilcorp gate, in a social media post Wednesday.
Refugio County Sheriff Raul Gonzales told 3NEWS that the driver of the semi-truck was not wearing a seatbelt, which resulted in him being ejected from the vehicle.
The man did die as a result of his injuries, said 3NEWS crews who were on scene.
One southbound lane of Hwy. 77 was closed while the wreckage was being cleaned up.
While the cause of the incident is under investigation, the sheriff's office wants to reminds the public of the dangers that come with trying to beat a train.
"Don't ever think you can race a train," said Refugio County Sheriff Office Patrol Deputy Ty Schultz. "Based off their size alone you have no idea how fast they may be traveling and its not a race you should be willing to win. I would always suggest, anytime approaching raildroad crossings, whether they have the gaurds or the arms or not, always approach with caution. Stop, roll down your windows, listen for a train before you cross. Take the extra steps"
Investigators are still looking into how the accident happened in the first place.
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"The guy is pinned under the 18-wheeler, I guess he wasn't wearing a seatbelt and ejected him."