Car, Amtrak train collide in Medford

MEDFORD, Mass. (WHDH) -- Officials said a driver tried to maneuver around a railroad crossing gate in Medford, but was hit by an Amtrak train.

The driver survived and no one on board the train was injured.

“The gates were completely down, the flag guy was already out here doing his job. The guy was coming this way and I seen the nose go under the gate and I knew he was not going to stop,” said Tom Barry, a witness.

The 69-year-old man was pulled from the mangled car. He was rushed to the hospital and is listed in fair condition.

“My mom just came and woke me up -- my dad hit the train,” said the victim’s son.

Transit police said the victim only suffered minor injuries.

“It’s kind of surprising. He was probably helped by the fact that we were in Medford, the trains have a little more reduced speed than they do further out in the country,” said Deputy Chief Robert Lenehan of the Transit Police.

Police said the Amtrak trains generally slow down to about 45 miles per hour.

The gates, lights and bells were working and a man with a flag was present to help ensure that cars stop. Police said it appears that the driver was trying to beat the train, which is a potentially deadly move.

“He’s alive. That’s all I know,” said the victim’s son.

The driver will be cited by police.