(October, 2006?) BNSF cornfield meet at Kismet?

Question

I believe the date is correct and I've seen the video on YouTube. I have several questions stemming from that video:

Did investigation ever determine why the opposing train over-ran the signal?

I never heard a signal called. Was this engineer running by himself?

For that matter, I never heard anyone pull the plug, head for the deck, sucking leather or anything else. Wouldn't that have rated at least an "OH SH*T!"?

It is my understanding the guy seen bailing survived. What was the extent of injury to the others?

"Kismet" placed in different states. Where is it in actuality?

It's hard to tell, but this appeared to be a 25 mph turn out from what speed? Anyone with a timetable know for sure? Was it a pig? He was way deep into the brake pipe.

Are "cab cams" standard fare on BNSF locos these days? Or was this a homemade video?

Finally, was there any disclipline as a result of the wreck. and to whom was the finger pointed?

Thanks to all in advance, stay safe!

Answer 1

I always wondered the same things, as you are about that crash. Seems to me if I was approaching a siding, and seen the engineer or brakemen of the apposing train jumping for his life. I would be screaming something like ":Holy S__t Batman!!" I mean you don't hear anything but the crash. Where was the engineer of the train that plowing into the one who ran the red signal. BNSF seems to be covering up things, and I have never read a report about it. Like did they all get fired?

Answer 2

I don't have all the answers, but I did see the original FRA (edit, sorry, NTSB) report.

The reason that you did not hear signals called and such, was that the microphone was not placed in the cab.  It was in the sub-base.  That was why the air braking was so easy to hear. (this was reportedly as a result of a union agreement with the RR)

Cab cams are standard for all the Class 1s now.

All survived the crash with no serious injuries.  The FRA report says that two bailed form the oncoming train, although I only saw the one guy.

Answer 3

I have wondered the same things myself.The UP told us about it but none of the details.I have been told there were 5 crew members involved and they all survived,two in critical condition.Kismet is in California.And yes most all of our new units have cameras now and the others are being retrofitted.The engineer overran the stop signal but why i don't know.I'll ask an officer pal of mine and see if he has any answers.If he does i'll let you know.

Answer 4

I might can answer the questions about the camera.  I know that on the UP engines, the newer ones have the cameras, and some of the older ones are having them installed.  They do not record any sound inside of the cab.  That is why you didn't hear anything from any of the crew members.