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Watch: Passing train hits Ill. fire truck during fire

While Moline firefighters knocked down an industrial dust-collector fire, a passing train struck the truck’s outriggers

MOLINE, Ill. — A Moline Fire Department ladder truck was hit by a passing train while firefighters were extinguishing a fire inside an industrial dust-collector.

Firefighters had responded to Williams White & Company on Sept. 11, near the railroad tracks, when the collision occurred as they worked to contain the blaze, KWQC reported.

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The passing train struck the outriggers on one side of the ladder truck. Officials told WQAD that the ladder truck was inspected and returned to service.

No firefighters were injured.

The fire in the container, filled with sawdust, was extinguished in 45 minutes.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.