The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating the collision between a semitrailer truck and a train near Katherine, Northern Territory on 14 June 2023.
At 1055 local time, the truck, travelling in an easterly direction, entered the Florina Road level crossing into the path of Aurizon train 2AD1 travelling from Adelaide, South Australia to Darwin, Northern Territory. The collision between the lead locomotive and trailer of the truck resulted in the derailment of two locomotives, crew car and several trailing wagons from the train. The locomotives, several trailing wagons and the trailer from the truck were destroyed. The crew of 2AD1 sustained minor injuries and were transported to hospital. The truck driver was uninjured.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing the train crew and truck driver, as well as any witnesses, retrieving and reviewing recorded data, and the collection of other relevant evidence.
Should a critical safety issue be identified during the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken. A final report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation.