A CSX train and a tractor-trailer collided Tuesday morning at Ganson and Michigan streets, causing burn injuries to two people. The incident happened around 10 a.m. The collision caused an explosion and fire because the tractor-trailer was running on natural gas. The fire has since been extinguished. Emergency crews and accident investigators are at the scene.
The two victims are the train conductor and the driver of the semi. They were treated at the scene, then taken to ECMC with upper body and facial burns. The train conductor suffered approximately 18% burns to his body.
No hazardous materials were on board either vehicle. The train was empty and the tractor-trailer was carrying flour.
Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield says the rear of the train struck the cab of the semi.
"One of the cylinders did explode upon impact, causing the fire. The other two cylinders were effectively cooled by Buffalo Fire and did not explode or catch on fire," Whitfield said.
A portion of Ganson Street is blocked, but nearby buildings were not evacuated. The cause of the crash is under investigation.