Train carrying GOP lawmakers hits garbage truck, 1 dead

(KMSP) - One person died after a train carrying dozens of GOP lawmakers to a Republican retreat in West Virginia hit a garbage truck south of Charlottesville, Virginia, on Wednesday. No lawmakers or staff were seriously injured. 

The victim of the crash was riding in the garbage truck. 

Minnesota lawmakers Rep. Tom Emmer, Rep. Erik Paulsen and Rep. Jason Lewis were all on the train at the time of the crash. 

Lewis was not severely hurt, but saw a doctor for whiplash and was diagnosed with a concussion, according to his spokesperson. He was subsequently released and still plans to attend the retreat.

“Jacquie and I are both aboard the train," Emmer said in a tweet. "We are both OK. Thank you to those who have reached out. Praying for all.”

Paulsen also took to Twitter after the crash.

“On train involved in the crash and am ok. Pray for those who are injured—minor injuries on train but more serious outside,” Paulsen said. 

Lewis’ spokesperson told Fox 9 that there were a lot of minor injuries. The shock of the collision was severe as heads were thrown into seats and people standing in aisles fell down, he said.

Several GOP lawmakers who are doctors got off the train to help treat victims. 

It’s unclear when lawmakers will resume their trip to their retreat. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.