SANTA MONICA—The Santa Monica Police Department is investigating a crash that occurred between a Metro Test Train and an 18-wheel stake bed truck on Thursday, December 10. According to a press release from the SMPD, the crash occurred on Colorado Avenue and 7th Street at 11:58 a.m.

The initial investigation revealed the driver of the 18-wheel truck was traveling westbound on Colorado Avenue nearing 7th Street. The Test Train which was being operated by a Conductor was also traveling westbound on the tracks in the middle of the road, at an unknown distance to the rear of the truck.

The driver of the stake bed truck attempted to make a left hand turn against posted signs prohibiting such turns, and was struck by the train. The collision caused damage to the truck and its diesel fuel tank and the Metro Test Train to derail.

The driver of the truck suffered minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. The Metro Test Train was carrying a total of 4 people including the conductor when the crash occurred. The Conductor and one Metro employee suffered minor upper body trauma and were treated by Santa Monica Fire Department Paramedics declining additional medical attention.

The Santa Monica Police Department is continuing to investigate the cause of the collision and anyone with information is asked to contact Investigator Jason Olson at (310) 458-8954; Sergeant Christopher Smith at (310) 458-8950 or the Santa Monica Police Department (24 hours) at (310) 458-8495.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME (1-800-78-27463), or submit the tip online at www.wetip.com. You will remain completely anonymous and may be eligible for a reward, up to $1,000.00, if your information leads to an arrest and conviction.

Callers can also contact Crime Stoppers by either calling (800) 222-TIPS, texting from your mobile, or by visiting their website at www.lacrimestoppers.org. Callers may remain anonymous and may be qualified to receive a $1,000.00 reward by Crime Stoppers.