One dead after train and car collide

A woman has died after the car she was driving was hit by a train on an uncontrolled level crossing near Levin.

The crash happened at approximately 7.05pm tonight (Sunday, 11 December) on the level crossing near the intersection of Jacksons Road and Koputaroa Road, north of Levin.

The 500m long freight train, which was heading towards Palmerston North, braked immediately but travelled approximately 600m before coming to a complete stop mid-way between the Jacksons Road and Tavistock Road level crossings . The Toyota car is currently trapped under the train and a crane is being utilised at the scene to reach the vehicle.

No other trains are expected through that stretch of rail line until the early hours of tomorrow morning and it is hoped that by then the area will be clear.

Police believe there was one local woman in the vehicle. Her exact age is unconfirmed but it is believed she was in her 50s.

The Serious Crash Investigation Unit is on scene to establish the cause of the crash.

The woman will not be name until next of kin are notified. No further details will be available tonight.