Today in Wheeling History: May 18--B&O engine and cars plunge through bridge near city station (1881). (https://rb.gy/cgoao)
A catastrophic accident occurred on the B. & O. railroad when an engine and two loaded cars plunged into Wheeling Creek. The noise of the collapse attracted a crowd, and immediate rescue efforts were initiated. The engineer, Thomas Clark, was trapped underwater but miraculously survived with minor injuries. The bridge collapse caused significant damage to the surrounding area, with broken barrels of flour and wreckage scattered. The engine and its cars fell into the creek. Remarkably, no fireman was present on the engine, and a brakeman on the rear car narrowly escaped death. The demolished had been in service for almost 20 years and is now beyond repair. Repairs and inspections are underway, while the loss to the railroad and freight are estimated to be substantial. Engineer Clark, around 40 years old with a wife and three children, is expected to make a full recovery.
A catastrophic accident occurred on the B. & O. railroad when an engine and two loaded cars plunged into Wheeling Creek. The noise of the collapse attracted a crowd, and immediate rescue efforts were initiated. The engineer, Thomas Clark, was trapped underwater but miraculously survived with minor injuries. The bridge collapse caused significant damage to the surrounding area, with broken barrels of flour and wreckage scattered. The engine and its cars fell into the creek. Remarkably, no fireman was present on the engine, and a brakeman on the rear car narrowly escaped death. The demolished had been in service for almost 20 years and is now beyond repair. Repairs and inspections are underway, while the loss to the railroad and freight are estimated to be substantial. Engineer Clark, around 40 years old with a wife and three children, is expected to make a full recovery.
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