Photo: Boarding1Now / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
Opa Locka, FL - A Miami Dade Transit bus was struck by a Tri Rail train late Wednesday night after it became stuck on train tracks in Opa Locka, prompting a multi-agency investigation and search for a fleeing driver.
The incident happened near the intersection of Northwest 22nd Avenue and Ali Baba Avenue.
Witnesses captured dramatic video of the moment a southbound Tri Rail train approached the immobilized bus, blasting its horn before clipping the rear of the vehicle.
The impact caused severe damage to the back of the bus, exposing internal components and scattering debris nearby.
According to Opa Locka Police, the chain of events began when a box truck allegedly rear ended the bus, forcing it to stop on the railway crossing.
The driver of the truck reportedly fled the scene immediately after the crash, and investigators are actively searching for the suspect.
Emergency crews from Miami Dade Fire Rescue arrived shortly after 10 p m.
Passengers who were on board the bus at the time were able to exit safely before the train made contact.
Authorities confirmed that no one was seriously injured, though a few individuals were evaluated for minor complaints at the scene.
Following the collision, Tri Rail temporarily suspended service in the area while teams cleared the tracks and assessed the damage.
Service resumed the following day without further disruption.
Officials from the Miami Dade Department of Transportation referred additional questions to local police, who are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and the hit and run.