Fatal train crash victim IDed

VERMILION TWP. — The Erie County Sheriff's Office has released the name of a man killed in a van-versus-train crash in Vermilion Township on Thursday. Darren W. Huber, 56, of Coral Drive, Vermilion, died when an eastbound Norfolk Southern train struck his Pontiac. Just before noon on Thursday, Erie County deputies were called to the northerly railroad crossing on Coen Road in Vermilion Township. This crossing is approximately 1,300 feet south of U.S. 6. Huber was trapped in the vehicle, which was still in contact with the train. The vehicle was pushed approximately one-half of a mile down the tracks, according to a sheriff's office report. First responders from Vermilion fire had to use mechanical means to extricate Huber from the vehicle, the report states. Once Huber was out, EMTs detected a faint pulse, and a medical helicopter was called. Once it arrived, personnel from the helicopter began assisting in tending to Huber. About 45 minutes after the crash was reported, Huber was pronounced dead at the scene. The train's conductor, whose name was not released, told deputies that the gates were down, and he saw Huber's car drive forward, then reverse then remain stationary on the tracks, the report states. The conductor stated he did not have enough distance to avoid striking the vehicle. Huber was taken to a Vermilion funeral home. Erie County coroner Brian Baxter did not respond to the scene of the crash but said his office would conduct an autopsy. A family member told deputies that Huber was having issues at work, the report states. Huber was born in Hillsboro, Illinois, according to his obituary. He worked at Firestone in Iowa before moving to Vermilion 11 years ago. He worked for Ford Motor Company for the past seven years. Funeral services will be private.