The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) Major Crash Team is investigating a deadly collision that occurred on March 25, 2026, south of the City of Amite.
Just before 2:30 p.m., an Amtrak train traveling southbound struck the front of a pickup truck traveling eastbound across the railroad tracks on Ponders Quarters Lane. The truck’s passenger, 22-year-old Dorian Batiste, was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. The driver sustained minor injuries and was treated and released from the hospital Wednesday evening.
At the time of the crash, the train was carrying 149 passengers. One passenger was treated for a panic attack following the incident.
Preliminary investigation indicates a potential brake malfunction on the truck may have contributed to the crash. While this railroad crossing does not have lights or arms, it is equipped with multiple warning signs, including instructions to yield when approaching from the east and to stop when approaching from the west.
The TPSO urges all drivers to exercise caution when approaching railroad crossings:
Stop, look both ways, and listen for train traffic before crossing, ideally at least 15 feet from the tracks.
Never drive around or under activated crossing arms or flashing lights where present.
At crossings without lights or arms, stop and carefully look both ways twice before crossing.
Additionally, TPSO reminds all drivers that wearing a seatbelt, while legally required in Louisiana, significantly reduces the risk of injury or death in a crash. Authorities encourage everyone in Tangipahoa Parish to buckle up every time.
