Metra UP-Northwest train collides with car, killing 1, officials say

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (WLS) -- Extensive delays have been reported on Metra's Union Pacific-Northwest line after a person was killed in a collision between a train and a vehicle near Arlington Heights, officials said.

Inbound train #646 struck the 2009 Honda Element around 2:30 p.m. Thursday after it turned westbound on Euclid Avenue from Northwest Highway, driving through an activated crossing gate, officials said. The car was dragged more than 1,000 feet and came to rest near the intersection of Northwest Highway and Ridge Avenue.

The driver of the vehicle has been identified as Zaiemunnisa Khan, 61, a female resident of Rolling Meadows.

"All the signals were operating correctly according to witnesses that were here, the vehicle traveled underneath the gate, pushing the railroad gate up, traverse the tracks at which time it was impacted by an inbound Metra train," said Deputy Chief Andrew Whowell, Arlington Heights Fire Department.

Officials are continuing to investigate.

Trains were temporarily using single tracking in the area as crews worked to clear the scene, but both tracks are now open. Nonetheless, Metra is reporting 10-40 minute delays on the line.