Train hits SUV in Tyhee area

A Union Pacific train struck an SUV in the Tyhee area on Friday evening after the SUV’s driver failed to yield.

Chase Fernandez, 23, tells Local News 8 he was driving across the railroad tracks eastbound on Tyhee Road at Dekay Road around 5:20 p.m.

He said the sun obstructed his view and he didn’t notice a train was coming until he was already halfway across the tracks.

“I looked out of the corner of my eye and kind of saw the shadow being cast by the train. Didn’t hear a horn or anything. I just gunned it,” said Fernandez. “(It) hit the back end and next thing I knew I was — ended up over here, spun a couple times, and walked away.”

Fernandez, who was the only person in the SUV, scraped by with only minor injuries. The train struck the back passenger side of his vehicle.

Idaho State Police told Local News 8 Fernandez probably won’t be cited.