3 dead after Amtrak train hits vehicle in Illinois

[July 14, 2009]  OTTAWA (AP) -- Three people are dead after their vehicle was struck by an Amtrak train in Illinois.

Authorities say five people were in the vehicle hit by the California-bound train shortly after 3 p.m. Monday near Ottawa, about 80 miles southwest of Chicago. There were no injuries aboard the train.

LaSalle County Sheriff Tom Templeton says is appears the vehicle didn't stop before crossing the tracks.

Two of those killed were Benjamin Rasmusen, 82, and Marilyn Rasmusen, 81, both of Leland. The third victim wasn't immediately identified. Two others in the vehicle were injured. One was treated and released from a hospital; the condition of the other wasn't available.

Five young people died last week when their vehicle skirted a crossing gate and was struck by an Amtrak train outside Detroit.

[Associated Press]

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