Driver, 68, ignores STOP sign and collides with freight train at unguarded crossing in Prostki, Poland
Two people were taken to hospital after a passenger car drove into the path of a freight train on the Ełk–Białystok line. The 68-year-old driver failed to stop at a B-20 sign, police said.
Collision at unguarded crossing
On Sunday, 19 July 2026, at approximately 11:40, a passenger car collided with a freight train at an unguarded railway crossing on ul. Zielona in Prostki, Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship. The train was travelling from Ełk to Białystok. According to preliminary police findings, the 68-year-old driver of the Opel ignored the B-20 "STOP" sign and did not halt before the crossing, driving directly into the path of the oncoming train.
Injuries and emergency response
Two occupants of the car were injured and transported to hospital. Local media reported that the driver suffered a spinal injury. A helicopter ambulance (LPR) landed at the scene. Fire units from Grajewo, Ełk, and the volunteer fire brigade of Prostki were deployed alongside police and medical teams. No injuries were reported among train crew or passengers.
Road and rail disruptions
The collision blocked ul. Zielona, and police urged drivers to use alternative routes. The railway line between Grajewo and Ełk was closed, causing significant disruption to train services. PKP Intercity announced that the IC Mamry service (Białystok–Wrocław Główny) was cancelled on the Grajewo–Ełk section in both directions, with replacement bus services provided.
IC no. 1614/5 "MAMRY" on the Białystok–Wrocław Główny route has been cancelled on the Grajewo–Ełk section. A replacement bus service will be operated on the cancelled section.
The operator advised passengers to check platform and on-board announcements and noted that affected travellers may submit compensation claims.
Police appeal for caution
The Ełk District Police issued a statement reminding drivers of the dangers at railway crossings. They stressed that the B-20 sign requires a mandatory stop and that a moment of inattention can lead to tragic consequences.
The B-20 "STOP" sign obliges drivers to come to a complete stop and ensure that crossing the tracks is safe. A moment of carelessness or haste can lead to tragic incidents.
Stop. Look around. Listen. Safety depends on your decision.
Officers continue to investigate the exact circumstances of the crash.
