NEWARK, DELAWARE (6/22/2015) A 76-year-old man was rescued by two Newark police officers moments before his SUV was struck by a CSX train, police said today.
The accident happened about 11:10 p.m. Sunday as George Kichline, of Alpha, New Jersey, was driving west on West Main Street, approaching the intersection with South Main and New London Road.
Kichline made a right turn onto the gravel bed of the CSX railroad and became stuck, Sgt. Gerald Bryda said.
Two Newark officers working extra-duty at the nearby Deer Park Tavern saw what was happening, ran over and helped usher Kichline away from the SUV.
As they were helping him, the warning signals began to flash and the gate arms came down as a train was approaching. The eastbound CSX train struck the Escape and pushed it to North College Avenue before it dislodged from the train, Bryda said.
The train stopped safely and no one was injured, he said.
He said police are still investigating but alcohol is not considered a factor in the crash. No charges have been filed.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Curtis Davis at 302-366-7100, ext. 3118.
Tips also may be submitted anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers, which offers rewards, at 800-847-3333 or www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com.