Motorist Seriously Hurt in Collision With Train
A Van Nuys man was in critical condition at Holy Cross Hospital Sunday after the car he was driving was struck in San Fernando by a freight train, police said. They said the train pushed the car more than 100 feet down the track before the auto burst into flames.
Edgard Giovanni Pleitez, 19, suffered massive head injuries when he was ejected from the car, police said. The collision occurred at the railroad crossing on Brand Boulevard shortly after 9:30 p.m. Saturday.
Police said the crossing arms apparently were not functioning, possibly because of wind-related damage. Witnesses told police the warning bells at the crossing were ringing and the red lights were flashing, Sgt. William Miron said.
The five-engine, 73-car train was traveling 20 to 30 m.p.h. It stopped about 400 feet after striking the car, Miron said.
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