Train collides with SUV in Harnett County

HARNETT COUNTY (WTVD) -- A train crash is under investigation in Harnett County after a CSX train slammed into an SUV on the tracks early Wednesday morning.

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It happened around 1 a.m. at the railroad crossing behind the Food Lion Distribution Center at Arrowhead Road, near Highway 301 in Dunn.

The State Highway Patrol tells ABC11 that a 1998 Jeep got stuck on the tracks due to possible mechanical issues.

The oncoming train was unable to stop and hit the SUV. Three men were able to get out of the Jeep before the collision and were not hurt.

The train pushed the vehicle for more than a mile after the impact.

Authorities said the owner of the Jeep, Michael Matthews, his brother and another man, were attempting to cross the tracks at what the NCHP called an "undesignated" crossing to drive in a field when the SUV got stuck.

Authorities said alcohol was involved, but no charges were filed, because the incident happened on private property.