SHAFTER, Calif., Thursday, Kern County Firefighters responded to an accident involving a commuter train and a passenger vehicle near the intersection of Highway 43 and Madera Ave. The first arriving firefighters reported a passenger vehicle that had sustained major damage from a collision with the commuter train. The solo occupant of the passenger vehicle was deceased on arrival. Firefighters made contact with the train conductor and were informed the commuter train had approximately 60 passengers, not including train personnel on board. One passenger and one train employee were assessed, both denied treatment.

CHP and Shafter PD closed the roads, and the railroad company was contacted to shut down all rail traffic. Due to an extended response time from KCSO coroner, KCFD firefighters returned to their station and remained available to respond to other emergencies. CHP maintained control of the scene. Approximately one hour later firefighters returned to the scene. The coroner had completed their on-scene investigations and firefighters could begin recovery efforts. The vehicle was stabilized with "Rescue 42’s" and "Hurst" equipment from their fire engines were used to extricate the deceased victim from the vehicle.