HARDIN COUNTY, IA – Seventy-one-year-old Kathaleen Houck of Radcliffe was tragically killed Thursday morning in a car-train collision in rural Hardin County, according to the Iowa State Patrol (ISP).
The accident occurred at approximately 10:53 a.m. on 290th Street, a gravel road located between E Avenue and F Avenue, about three miles southeast of Radcliffe. Authorities reported that Houck was driving her Toyota Prius eastbound when she approached a railroad crossing with flashing warning lights. Despite the active signals, her vehicle failed to yield and was struck on the rear passenger side by a northbound train.
Emergency responders arrived promptly, and Houck was airlifted to Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. Despite their efforts, she succumbed to her injuries later that day.
The railroad crossing where the collision occurred is equipped with flashing warning lights but lacks cross-arms, a safety feature that physically prevents vehicles from crossing when a train is approaching. The absence of cross-arms has raised safety concerns, with experts advocating for additional measures at rural crossings to enhance driver awareness and reduce risks.
The Iowa State Patrol has launched an investigation into the incident, examining factors such as the train’s speed, visibility, and road conditions to determine the cause of the crash. No further details about the circumstances leading to the collision have been released at this time.
The Radcliffe community is mourning the loss of a beloved member. Houck, remembered as a kind and caring individual, leaves behind family, friends, and neighbors grappling with her sudden passing. Her tragic death serves as a somber reminder of the importance of caution at railroad crossings and the potential need for enhanced safety measures in rural areas.
Authorities encourage anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the Iowa State Patrol. Meanwhile, safety advocates continue to stress the critical need for drivers to remain vigilant at railroad crossings, emphasizing the importance of adhering to warning signals and stopping completely when trains approach.