Police Log: Man Outruns Approaching Train

A 33-year-old Needham man was cited for failing to stop at a railroad crossing.

Needham Police officers observed a blue Toyota Camry approach the railroad tracks on West St. at 10:45 a.m. on Feb. 3. As the car approached, the railroad lights began to flash, the bell sounded and the gate began to close indicating that a train was approaching. Despite the warnings, the Needham man continued to drive across the tracks, never attempting to stop.

Officer Edward Bayiates reported witnessing the vehicle increase its speed as it approached, narrowly driving under the closing gate. Traffic in the opposite direction, he said, had already stopped for the train.

Bayiates reported traffic as “very heavy” during this time and that the roads were wet due to lightly falling snow. He also reported that there was no solar glare that could have impaired the driver’s vision due to the sky being cloudy.

Officer Bayiates reported that he was unable to stop the vehicle before the train approached, but the Needham man was later issued a citation by mail for failing to stop at a railroad crossing.