Some quick thinking by a Galesburg police officer was able to prevent a tragedy on railroad tracks Sunday.
Officer Chris Beaupre was on patrol and noticed a Ford Fusion that was stuck on the tracks west of Academy and Ferris Streets
Officer Beaupre immediately called for the trains on the track to stop.
The driver of the car, 27-year-old Nicholas Collins, told police that he had missed a turn and ended up stuck. Collins had several indicators of alcohol impairment and was eventually charged with DUI, driving without insurance, and illegal transportation of alcohol.
While the officer was speaking with Collins, railroad gate lights came on as a train was approaching but due to Beaupre’s call, the train stopped before hitting Collins’ vehicle.
The Galesburg Police Department has awarded Officer Beaupre a “Blue Max” award for his actions that prevented a train/car collision and saved the life of Nicholas Collins.
The Blue Max Award program has recently been implemented within the Galesburg Police Department to recognize officers for a job well done and to “encourage excellence” within the department.
