Arrest Made After Train Derailment
The Valparaiso Police Department continues to investigate the derailment of multiple train cars due to a motor vehicle being struck by an eastbound train during the early morning hours of July 22, 2023, according to Valparaiso Police.
Police arrived on scene of the crash at approximately 4:50 AM, locating the impact of the train and vehicle along the Canadian National Railways (CN) crossing at Franklin Street. The vehicle was confirmed to be unoccupied; however, the crash caused several additional crossings to be closed throughout the day to the west of Franklin Street along the CN track. As the investigation continued, CN confirmed multiple cars had been derailed, causing further delays in reopening the crossings. CN further reported that no hazardous materials were present and no danger to the public existed as a result of the derailment.
No injuries have been reported as a result of this incident.
Currently, only the Froberg Road crossing remains closed due to this event, while the Lafayette Street and Yellowstone Road crossings remain closed for scheduled maintenance by CN. CN crews working on the cleanup of this accident advise they should be completed on Sunday, causing no additional delays or closures.
“We thank the emergency crews for their prompt attention to this accident. Public safety was our first priority and we acted quickly to assure there were no injuries or hazards to the public,” said Mayor Matt Murphy. “We appreciate the patience of motorists as CN completes clean-up efforts.”
The investigation of this incident has remained ongoing since the crash occurred, resulting in the arrest of James Rockhill, 39, of Kouts. Rockhill is incarcerated at the Porter County Jail on charges of railroad mischief, criminal recklessness, and leaving the scene of a crash.
