NewsWest 9
MIDLAND- NewsWest 9 is continuing to follow the investigation into deadly train crash that killed four war veterans during a parade in Midland. We now know the name of the company who provided the truck carrying those veterans and their spouses on that tragic day. The National Transportation Safety Board says the truck was donated by Smith Industries of Midland.
As the sun sets, lights come on and shine bright to remember the four veterans killed.
On Sunday, the NTSB gave more details about the crash. They said the fatalities were all on the left side of the float in rows four through seven.
"Males were on the left side, 12 females on the right. Think of the left side as 'Column A' and right side 'column B' and the heroes that lost their lives in this accident were seated in 4A, 5A, 6A and 7a," NTSB Spokesperson, Mark Rosekind, said.
That tragic day, veterans and their spouses had only seconds to jump off the train before the collision. After a thorough examination on the signal system, authorities concluded it was functioning as it was designed to do.
For three years, organizers have used the parade route through Front and Garfield streets and the NTSB says they have obtained city requirements for processions and parades.
"That's why again, this is the city ordinance that we have now for the permit so we have to actually see what was required whether it was followed or not and who actually performed those actions and whether it was correct or not," Rosekind said.
Officials say the engineer and conductor on the train had clear recollections of the day's events and provided relevant information. We've learned that Smith Industries, who sells and manufactures oilfield service equipment, donated the truck. However it's not clear if the drivers works for them but the NTSB is expected to interview the driver in the coming days.
Investigators are expected to remain on scene another four to seven days.
Flowers, flags and lights remain at the accident scene and a soldier placed another flag where the crash happened to pay his respects. The four men may be gone but their lights will shine on.
