The large yellow machine is a “Ballast Regulator”, it follows a laser to adjust the track elevator, improving ride ability and increase in speeds. The tire shown in the other pictures is the front tire of a backhoe/loader that assists in handling ballast stone.
This work is usually done on weekends due to low track usage.
This was not a last minute idea, it was planned well in advance. The track was out of service and closed to train traffic, it is called a “outing”.
When this work is done you are in a “Fouling Limit”, that is within 21 LF of the center line of a active track. Present are Flagmen and Safety Inspectors, their word is “law” and can and will have you arrested if you present a danger to safety, at the site of work and distance before and after the work zone all connected by radio, ALSO, the Central Control of that track section has a system that tells them what track the train is in and it’s real time location.
By the time you see the train coming at you and it is moving at 60 to 100 mph you are dead.
Why did it happen? We will find out soon enough, but someone screwed up, wait for the results of the investigation before assigning blame.
And may those killed Rest in Peace, and God Bless them and their families. Amen.
Thanks for the knowledgeable update. As always, there is someone with the detail understanding to give us insight. Prayers for the dead and injured.
the whole story will be buried because in communist America, the govt and the business cabal cover for each other..