FORT MEADE, Fla. — A Fort Meade volunteer firefighter was rushed to the hospital after being hit by a CSX train early Tuesday afternoon in Polk County.
It happened around 12:45 p.m. in the area of 14th Street NW – near Hwy 17 North.
The Polk County Sheriff's Office, which is investigating the accident, said the firefighter suffered a broken leg.
Investigators say firefighters were trying to stop the spread of a grass fire at the same time the train was approaching the area.
The firefighter who got hurt saw a door was open on one of their emergency trucks, so he ran over to shut it. But, the train arrived as he was making it to the truck, injuring his leg as it passed.
- Didn't get a ticket to the Super Bowl Experience? No problem! Here are other ways to enjoy the big game
- Super Bowl LV: 10 unique facts about the game being played during a pandemic
- Hear from two Tampa Bay health care heroes on getting to go to Super Bowl LV
- Third stimulus check update: Who qualifies under Biden, GOP proposals
- Meet 'The Sodfather': Legendary groundskeeper in Tampa to prep field for Super Bowl LV
- Everything you need to know about Super Bowl LV in Tampa
►Breaking news and weather alerts: Get the free 10 Tampa Bay app
►Stay In the Know! Sign up now for the Brightside Blend Newsletter
