Dunning, Neb. — One person died after a southbound semi loaded with hay was struck by an eastbound BNSF train in Blaine County. Blaine County Sheriff Tim Sierks says the collision occured shortly after 7:30 a.m. Friday west of the Blaine-Custer County line at Linscott Avenue and Nebraska Highway 2. The crash location is approximately 9 and 1/2 miles east of Dunning. The southbound semi was leaving a driveway at the time of the accident when it was struck directly behind the tractor by the train. The crossing has stop signs, but there are no lights or crossing arms.
Three engines and at least two railroad cars of a BNSF train were derailed in the crash, but remained upright. Area crews are working to clean up the site. Crews from Grand Island and North Platte headed to the scene to repair the tracks. The victim was identifed as Steven N. Daniels, 73 of Seneca.
