Red-Light Crossing Leads to Train Collision and Bus Driver Charges in Częstochowa

Following a June 20 railway crossing collision in Częstochowa where an Opel was struck by a freight train, prosecutors have charged a city bus driver with failing to render aid.

Collision at the Częstochowa Railway Crossing

On June 20 at the railway crossing connecting Główna Street and Mała Warszawka Street in Częstochowa, Silesian Voivodeship, the 19-year-old driver of an Opel ignored flashing red signals, drove onto the tracks, and was struck directly by a freight train.

As a result of the incident, the 19-year-old driver remains hospitalized, while the 16-year-old passenger recently returned home.

Bus Driver Charged with Failing to Render Aid

The District Prosecutor’s Office in Częstochowa separated materials from the accident investigation to initiate a distinct proceeding against the 47-year-old city bus driver who had pulled up directly behind the Opel.

According to prosecutor Tomasz Ozimek, the offense involved the bus driver creeping up closely behind the Opel and then leaving the scene without providing assistance to the victims.

PKP PLK Footage and Investigation Details

Polskie Linie Kolejowe published footage showing the Opel stopping past the flashing red signal before turning. A municipal bus then pulled up closely behind it intending to go straight, as buses use a side road of Główna Street where a stop is located.

The bus pulled very close to the Opel, after which the car moved forward—clearing the path for the bus—directly into the approaching train.

Suspended Driver Faces Up to Eight Years in Prison

During questioning, the suspect bus driver denied the allegations and refused to make a statement. The prosecutor imposed preventative measures including police supervision, a 5,000 PLN financial bail, and suspension from performing his duties as a bus driver.

The offenses he is accused of carry a prison sentence of up to eight years.