A truck driver has been charged over a crash involving a passenger train on one of Perth’s main rail lines that left at least three people injured.
Police allege the 33-year-old man drove a truck towing a dog trailer onto an activated railway crossing in Guildford’s town centre during a weekday afternoon peak hour in May.
An incoming train collided with the trailer, tearing it from the truck and scattering debris across the scene.
The train is stationary on the tracks after being involved in the crash. (Supplied: 102.5 ABC Perth listener)
Debris from the crash struck three vehicles, causing significant damage, while the train and railway infrastructure were also damaged.
Police say three people suffered minor injuries and were taken to hospital.
The train seen with damage in May at Transperth’s Claisebrook depot. (ABC News: West Matteeussen)
The man, who is from Ballajura, has now been charged with three counts of dangerous driving occasioning bodily harm and one count of acts or omissions causing bodily harm or danger.
He has also been charged with one count of driving with a prescribed illicit drug in oral fluid or blood.
Chaotic scene
Eyewitnesses had described the aftermath as “chaotic”, saying the train tore the truck’s trailer apart and left the vehicle split in two.
The truck’s axel landed on the bonnet of a four-wheel drive. (Supplied: Craig Hilton)
They said debris, including a truck axle, flew into nearby vehicles, while the front of the train and the level crossing were badly damaged.
Passengers recalled being thrown to the floor as the train shook on impact, describing the scene as “apocalyptic”.
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A family waiting at the crossing said they felt lucky to escape injury after debris smashed into their SUV.
The ABC reported at the time that at least six people were injured, including two toddlers, although none were life-threatening.
