Cleanup underway after Amtrak train hits vehicle, derails in New Buffalo

UPDATE: Amtrak's Wolverine Train 355, traveling from Pontiac, Michigan to Chicago, Illinois derailed after hitting a car on U.S. 12 and Lakeside Road Thursday night.

The train was carrying 218 passengers at the time of the crash. 

Eleven people, including the engineer, suffered minor injuries from the derailment, but were treated at the scene and are expected to be okay.

Remaining passengers were taken to a temporary shelter at New Buffalo High School but have since been picked up to continue the way to Chicago.

According to the Berrien County Sheriff's Department, the Amtrak train was unable to stop after it hit a car that was being towed away by a tow truck around 10 p.m. The train derailed, but it did stay upright off of the tracks.

Lakeside Road, between U.S. 12 and Kruger Road, will be closed for several days. The official detour for this closure follows Kruger Road to Basswood Road to US-12/Pulaski Highway. The department will update its Facebook page once it's back open.

As of Friday morning, Amtrak is cancelling two trains from New Buffalo to Chicago. You can find a full list of schedules here. 

ORIGINAL STORY: 

NEW BUFFALO, Mich. - Amtrak reports that at approximately 10 p.m. Thursday, a train struck a vehicle and derailed in New Buffalo.   

Officials say a Wolverine Train 355, traveling from Pontiac, Michigan, to Chicago, struck a vehicle obstructing the tracks.

There were approximately 218 passengers onboard, with no reports of injuries.

Six crew members were onboard, with two being examined for injuries.

The train derailed because of the impact but remained upright.

Amtrak is working closely with local authorities and has deployed personnel to the scene.

Passengers are being provided alternate transportation.

ABC57 will keep you updated as more info becomes available.