Tragedy on the Rails: BNSF Maintenance Worker Darrin Polansky Killed in Train Collision While Operating Welder’s Truck; Passenger Seriously Injured as NTSB Launches Investigation into Fatal Accident Northwest of New Rockford, ND”
New Rockford, ND – November 5, 2024 – In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the railroad community, a Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) maintenance worker, Darrin Polansky, was killed when his vehicle, a specialized welder’s truck, was struck by a train in Eddy County, North Dakota. The accident occurred at approximately 11:00 a.m. on November 4, about 2.5 miles northwest of New Rockford. A second worker, identified as Chad Chandler, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital.
The accident has drawn the attention of federal safety officials and raised concerns about railway safety procedures for maintenance-of-way crews. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is set to investigate, and the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) has extended its condolences to Polansky’s family, noting the risks faced daily by those working on the nation’s railway infrastructure.
The Collision: Details of the Incident
According to Eddy County Sheriff Paul Lies, the accident took place when the BNSF maintenance vehicle, designed for welding and track repair, was backing up across the tracks. As the truck moved onto the mainline, it was struck by an oncoming BNSF freight train traveling at significant speed. Sheriff Lies confirmed that the impact was devastating, leading to the immediate death of Polansky and leaving Chandler with serious injuries.
Initial reports indicate that visibility was clear at the time of the accident, but questions remain regarding whether all necessary safety protocols were followed. Sheriff Lies did not speculate on the potential causes but noted that railway maintenance operations are inherently hazardous and require meticulous coordination.
The incident site, a remote area approximately 2.5 miles northwest of New Rockford, was quickly cordoned off as emergency responders and investigators arrived. Polansky was pronounced dead at the scene, while Chandler was stabilized before being rushed to a hospital in Carrington, roughly 20 miles away.
The Victim: Darrin Polansky’s Life and Legacy
The victim, Darrin Polansky, 58, of Brainerd, Minnesota, was a seasoned railway maintenance worker with decades of experience in the industry. Known for his commitment to safety and his expertise in welding and track maintenance, Polansky was well-respected by his colleagues and admired for his dedication. He leaves behind a wife and two children, who are mourning the sudden loss of a beloved husband and father. His death marks a significant loss not only for his family but also for the BNSF community.
Polansky’s career with BNSF spanned over two decades, during which he worked on numerous maintenance projects throughout the Midwest. Colleagues remember him as a reliable and skilled worker who took pride in his craft. “Darrin was always the guy you could count on,” said a colleague and friend. “He knew the job inside and out, and he always put safety first.”
The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) released a statement on its website, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Polansky and underscoring the dangers faced by those working in railway maintenance. “The entirety of our Brotherhood sends our deepest condolences to his family and friends,” the BMWED wrote, adding that Polansky’s death is a reminder of the risks associated with the work performed by maintenance crews on active railroad lines.
The Injured Passenger: Chad Chandler’s Condition
Chad Chandler, 53, from Baldwin, Wisconsin, was in the vehicle with Polansky when the collision occurred. Though his injuries were described as serious, he was conscious when paramedics arrived. Chandler was taken to Carrington Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. While details on his condition have not been fully disclosed, doctors expect that Chandler will require a lengthy recovery period. His family has asked for privacy but expressed gratitude for the support from friends, colleagues, and the railroad community.
NTSB Investigation: Assessing Safety Protocols and Incident Causes
In light of the fatal accident, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has announced that it will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the collision. NTSB officials will examine a range of factors, including the vehicle’s positioning on the tracks, the visibility of warning signals, the protocols followed by the maintenance crew, and the speed and trajectory of the oncoming train.
The welder’s truck involved in the incident was a maintenance-of-way vehicle specifically designed to perform welding tasks on railroad infrastructure. Such vehicles are commonly used for repairs but require strict adherence to safety guidelines, given their frequent use on or near active railway lines. NTSB investigators are expected to inspect the truck’s safety equipment and review any electronic data available from both the maintenance vehicle and the train.
The investigation will also include a review of BNSF’s operational protocols for maintenance vehicles. Federal law requires that all maintenance operations near active tracks follow specific protocols, including radio communication, coordination with dispatchers, and clear signaling. Investigators will seek to determine if all procedures were correctly followed and if any equipment failures or human errors contributed to the collision.
Safety Concerns in the Railroad Maintenance Industry
This tragic incident has reignited conversations about the risks associated with railway maintenance work, a field that presents unique dangers due to the proximity of workers to moving trains. The collision highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of railway personnel who often work in remote areas, far from emergency medical services. Workers are exposed to heavy machinery, high-speed trains, and the constant pressure to maintain strict schedules.
The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes has frequently advocated for improved safety measures, including advanced warning systems and stronger protective protocols for maintenance crews. “Maintenance work on live tracks remains one of the most dangerous jobs in the industry,” stated a BMWED representative. “Our workers face constant risks, and every precaution must be taken to protect their lives.”
Industry experts are calling for further examination of railway maintenance safety practices and exploring technologies that could reduce risk, such as automated signals that can warn oncoming trains when maintenance crews are nearby. These discussions have gained urgency in the wake of Polansky’s death, as stakeholders look for solutions to prevent future tragedies.
BNSF’s Response and Support for Affected Families
BNSF Railway has issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Polansky and extending condolences to his family. “Our thoughts are with the families of those affected by this tragedy. We are fully cooperating with the NTSB in their investigation and are committed to ensuring the highest safety standards,” a BNSF spokesperson stated.
BNSF has initiated an internal review of its safety practices, with the goal of understanding any lapses that may have occurred and identifying areas for improvement. Additionally, the company is providing resources to support Polansky’s family during this difficult time, including grief counseling services and financial assistance. BNSF has also offered to cover all medical expenses for Chandler’s treatment and recovery.
The Role of Maintenance Crews in Railway Safety
Railway maintenance crews like those employed by BNSF play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of America’s railways. Maintenance-of-way workers perform essential tasks such as welding, track repairs, and inspections, which are crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring the longevity of railway infrastructure.
Darrin Polansky’s death has underscored the dedication and sacrifices made by these workers, who often operate under challenging and hazardous conditions. Railroad industry analysts note that maintenance crews face risks similar to those encountered by emergency responders and other public safety personnel, as they often work in close proximity to active railway lines and heavy machinery.
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Plans for Darrin Polansky
Polansky’s family, friends, and colleagues are preparing to honor his memory with a funeral service planned for later this week in Brainerd, Minnesota. The service is expected to be attended by members of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes, BNSF representatives, and fellow railway workers from across the region. In addition to the funeral service, a public memorial will be held near the site of the accident in Eddy County, where members of the local community will have an opportunity to pay their respects.
The BMWED has organized a fundraiser to support Polansky’s family, with proceeds going toward funeral expenses and educational funds for his children. “Darrin was a beloved member of our union family, and we are committed to supporting those he left behind,” a BMWED official said.
Remembering Darrin Polansky: A Life of Dedication
For those who knew him, Darrin Polansky was more than just a railway worker; he was a family man, a dedicated professional, and a friend to many. His colleagues recall his unwavering commitment to safety, his strong work ethic, and his sense of humor. “Darrin always had a smile, even on the toughest days,” remembered one of his coworkers. “He was the kind of person you looked forward to working with every day.”
As the railway industry reflects on this tragedy, the memory of Polansky serves as a reminder of the importance of safety, vigilance, and the human cost of maintaining the nation’s vast rail network.
A Call to Action: Addressing Worker Safety in the Wake of Tragedy
In response to the accident, advocates within the railway industry are calling for renewed attention to worker safety protocols and the adoption of new technologies to protect maintenance crews. Suggestions include implementing real-time GPS tracking for maintenance vehicles, installing automatic braking systems on trains near work zones, and improving training programs for workers who operate in high-risk areas.
