Details about the driver or if they were injuried is not known at this time.
Reportedly the car passed a working signal, that only has lights - no stop arms, before striking the train. It isn't known if the driver simply failed to stop, or if there were mechanical problems with the car.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol says it is investigating.
The New Hope Valley Railway is primarily an outdoor museum exhibit that offers rides to families as a part of the North Carolina Railroad Museum.