Semi stuck in traffic hit by Amtrak train

AURORA, Ore. (AP) — Authorities say a truck slammed by an Amtrak train in Aurora had been forced to stop on the tracks because of heavy traffic.

Lt. Chris Baldridge of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office says the truck was hauling paper pulp, and 65,000 pounds spilled Monday morning at an intersection in Aurora, 25 miles south of Portland.

The lieutenant says the train was traveling 35 mph at the time. Only minor scrapes and bruises were reported by passengers and the truck driver.

Amtrak spokeswoman Vernae Graham says the train was going from Eugene to Seattle when the accident happened at 7:25 a.m. Forty-three passengers were aboard, and they are being taken to Portland by bus.

Graham says there was no derailment.