MILFORD — A Norfolk Southern train made a grand exit out of Milford Friday afternoon, Oct. 2, when it went crashing through a downed tree.

The tree was approximately 25-30 feet in length and about 2 feet around and had fallen on the tracks behind The Papers Inc. building located on First Street. Milford Police Officer Travis Marsh reported he made contact with Warsaw dispatch who alerted Norfolk Southern to the dilemma. Marsh reported the company refused to stop the train and advised the crew to get away from the tracks.

The train was heading south when it came through Milford, striking the tree at full speed. The train shattered the tree, leaving bark and branches all over the track and the bridge. The train then made an emergency stop south of town.

When Marsh spoke with the train’s engineer, he informed Marsh he had never been notified of the downed tree. The impact caused damage to both the train and signs around the tracks.

The investigation on the incident is ongoing.