(July 8, 2026 – Stanton, Tennessee)
A Tennessee Department of Transportation employee passed away following her involvement in a catastrophic collision with a CSX train on Wednesday, July 8. The fatal crash took place in Stanton, TN, at the Cotton Lane Crossing on State Route 179 at approximately 10:42 a.m.
TDOT has identified the victim as worker Cathy Sims. Initial investigations determined that Sims was operating a TDOT commercial vehicle at the time of the collision. As Sims traversed the Cotton Lane Crossing, the active warning system was activated, lowering the gates onto the TDOT truck. Sims attempted to both reverse and go forward but was ultimately struck by the eastbound CSX train. In the aftermath, she was ejected from the vehicle, which continued to roll before catching fire. By the time of the Haywood County Fire Department’s arrival, the truck was engulfed in flames. Sims passed away from her injuries at the scene. No injuries to the train crew members were reported.
Per the Federal Railroad Administration’s records submitted by CSX, the Cotton Lane Crossing where the fatality occurred is owned and operated by CSX. It is a rural, public at-grade crossing used by freight trains traveling at speeds of up to 49 miles per hour. The primary intersecting roadway has an average daily traffic count of 750 and a posted speed limit of 30 miles per hour. Two roadways intersect to form the northern approach to the crossing, and three meet at the southern approach. The crossing is equipped with several active warning devices, including two gate arms, flashing lights, and bells.
However, it is unknown at this time if the active warning devices were working properly and gave the driver sufficient time to clear the crossing at the time of this collision. The Cotton Lane Crossing has seen four prior accidents and may continue to pose several dangers for motorists. Surrounding trees and the crossing’s location in the center of town amid buildings may make it difficult for traffic to safely observe oncoming trains. The intersection of the tracks and the primary roadway is at a significant skew, which may reduce sight distances. Moreover, Cotton Lane, Wilkerson Street, and S. Main Street run parallel to the railroad tracks just before the approach to the tracks, which may complicate drivers’ ability to see trains approaching from behind them while traversing those roads.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol and CSX are continuing to investigate the tragic collision.