On the night of Sunday, September 15, firefighters from the Macedonia Volunteer Fire Department responded to a report of a vehicle stuck on the railroad tracks near US Hwy 11 and Gopher Tortoise Trail. A Nissan Altima had mistakenly turned onto the tracks and became stuck after traveling a short distance.
Workers from a nearby gas plant noticed the vehicle and assisted the elderly driver to safety before first responders arrived.
It is believed the driver suffered from a medical condition that impaired their judgment, leading them to believe they were turning onto a road rather than the tracks.
Firefighters and deputies from the Forrest County Sheriff’s Office coordinated efforts to notify Norfolk Southern Railroad, successfully stopping an approaching train about 100 yards from the scene.
A tow truck removed the car without major damage, and EMS transported the driver, who was later released to family members. Thanks to the quick actions of all involved, a potential tragedy was averted.
