Two people have died following a crash between a motor vehicle and a VIA passenger train near Melbourne, west of London.

OPP say both people were travelling in a Ford car Monday that collided with the train, which had 88 people aboard, around 10:30 a.m.

The car ended up in the north side of the ditch on Melbourne Road. It was heading south on Melbourne Road and the train was heading east.

Police say two women from Strathroy, ages 39 and 37, were pronounced dead at the scene.

One passenger in the train suffered minor injuries and the train had some front-end damage.

OPP said the train crossing has flashing lights but no arms.

Sgt. Dave Rector said OPP is working with CN Police to determine if the lights were flashing at the time of the crash. He said the roads were clear at the time.

"I’ve been at another crash at this intersection that resulted in fatal injuries several years ago. It’s a well-marked railway crossing. Oftentimes you find that driver error is a causal factor," Rektor said.

The train was cleared to leave with all passengers still on board at 3:15 p.m.

 

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