Driver critically injured after pickup collides with RT train in Rancho Cordova

A driver was critically injured Friday after a pickup truck collided with a Sacramento Regional Transit light rail train in Rancho Cordova.

The crash was reported just after 1 p.m. at the intersection of Folsom Boulevard and Kilgore Road, according to the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District.

Firefighters arrived to find the driver trapped inside a Chevrolet Silverado crew cab that had been pinned against a light rail catenary pole. Crews stabilized the pickup before performing a technical extrication to free the driver.

The driver, an adult man, was hospitalized with critical injuries, Metro Fire Capt. Mark Nunez said.

The collision involved one of Sacramento Regional Transit’s newer low-floor light rail trains. RT temporarily suspended Gold Line rail service through the area and established a bus bridge while crews cleared the scene. Train service resumed about 7 p.m.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation though initial reports indicated the truck had crossed onto the tracks after signals had been activated.

“The Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District reminds the public to always obey railroad and light rail crossing signals,” Nunez said in a statement. “Never drive around lowered crossing arms or attempt to cross tracks when warning devices are activated. These safety systems are in place to prevent tragic incidents and save lives.”