Motorist killed in collision with train near Assen
Rail traffic between Groningen and Assen is expected to resume no earlier than late Monday afternoon after a fatal collision between a car and a train near Assen. The crash killed the motorist and caused significant damage to the railway infrastructure, according to rail operator ProRail.
The accident occurred at a railroad crossing when an NS train struck a car, dragging the vehicle a considerable distance before the front of the train caught fire, RTV Noord reported. Emergency services were able to quickly extinguish the flames. The train’s driver was not physically injured, and all passengers were safely evacuated.
“A collision like this causes more damage than you might expect,” said a ProRail spokesperson. “Not only must the overhead lines and rails be inspected and repaired, but the underground cables also need to be checked.” ProRail said a special recovery vehicle was expected to arrive by midday to remove the damaged train.
As a result of the incident, no trains are operating between Groningen and Assen until at least 6 p.m. The NS has deployed replacement bus services along the route. Earlier reports incorrectly stated that train traffic was halted between Groningen and Beilen, but service between Assen and Beilen has resumed.
