Preschooler one of two fatalities in Woodville car and train crash

The Palmerston North Rescue Helicopter at the scene of the crash. Photo / Supplied

One of the two people who died when a car and a freight train collided near Palmerston North yesterday was a preschooler.

It was believed the boy was travelling with his father, who suffered moderate injuries. Another passenger in the car was also killed in the crash on Troup Rd, Woodville, about 5pm.

A spokesperson for Defence Minister Ron Mark told the Herald he had been notified of the incident, which involved a member of the defence force, but there had been no official briefing.

The Herald contacted the child's daycare centre but they were too upset to speak, saying they would only comment once police had released the victims' names and family had been contacted.

A Palmerston North Rescue Helicopter paramedic treated the injured man at the scene before he was helicoptered to Palmerston North Hospital for further treatment.

A nearby resident told the Herald he heard the crash but initially had no idea that a train was involved.

Emergency services at the scene of the fatal crash involving a car and a train at Woodville near Palmerston North. Photo / Stephen Carle

"I thought it was a car crash on the main road but I looked out the window and couldn't see anything so I went back to work."
KiwiRail chief operations officer Todd Moyle said a freight train, which had been heading to Palmerston North from Napier, collided with the car.

It is understood the train and mangled car wreck came to a rest about 100 metres past the Troup Rd crossing.

"Sadly, it has been reported there are two fatalities, and our thoughts are with their families and loved ones," Moyle said.

KiwiRail Group general manager zero harm Katie McMahon said police were leading the investigation, with assistance from KiwiRail.

"Any further comment on the investigation should come from the police.

"Events like these are distressing for all those involved and our thoughts are with those affected by this tragedy.

"We are providing support to our locomotive driver who was involved in the collision."

Police confirmed the Serious Crash Unit was investigating, and said they couldn't comment further until the investigation was complete.