Fatal crash between train and vehicle in Steilacoom minutes after pair reported missing
Nov 25, 2025, 7:53 AM | Updated: 8:13 am
Closeup of a Steilacoom Police Department vehicle. (Photo courtesy of Steilacoom Police Department)
(Photo courtesy of Steilacoom Police Department)
One person is dead after a tragic collision in Steilacoom late Monday night.
At approximately 11 p.m. Monday, a freight train struck a vehicle with two people inside near Union Avenue, the Steilacoom Police Department confirmed.
“One occupant of the passenger vehicle suffered catastrophic injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene,” Steilacoom Police wrote. “The other passenger, who was rescued from the vehicle prior to the collision by bystanders, was transported to a local area emergency room for further treatment.”
Authorities said both individuals had been reported missing from University Place less than 30 minutes earlier. Deputies with the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office were searching for the vehicle when the crash happened.
No foul play is suspected.
“Steilacoom Public Safety is grateful for the courage of the bystanders who stepped in to help, and for the rapid and professional assistance from many of our area partners, including West Pierce Fire and Rescue, DuPont Police, Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, Lakewood Police, Puyallup Police, Fife Police, the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad Police,” Steilacoom Police stated.
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