Toyota 4Runner Flips Over After Jumping Median and Crashing into Parked Car in Downtown Durango
A dramatic crash unfolded at about 9:45 a.m. Friday on Camino del Rio in downtown Durango when a dark gray Toyota 4Runner lost control and vaulted a median, barreled across oncoming traffic, went over active railroad tracks, and struck a parked vehicle before flipping onto its roof.
The Toyota slammed into a white Ford parked near the new Durango Fire Protection District station and behind the offices of The Durango Herald. Both vehicles sustained severe damage in the collision, though the Ford’s owner was not in the car at the time of the wreck.
Minor Injuries and Safety Precautions as Police Investigate Cause
Amanda Garrison, spokesperson for the Durango Police Department, confirmed the Toyota’s driver suffered only minor injuries and has been treated. Authorities have not yet disclosed what caused the SUV to lose control and jump the median.
Railroad Tracks Temporarily Closed as Inspectors Assess Damage
The crash’s impact extended beyond the immediate damage to vehicles: the Toyota crossed over the railroad tracks used by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Jeff Johnson from the railroad reported that while the tracks appeared undamaged visually, operations have been paused pending a thorough safety inspection.
“We’ll have a track inspector come out and do an official inspection so we can feel comfort to open the railroad up again,” Johnson said.
This precaution highlights significant disruption potential to one of the region’s key heritage railways, pending clearance for safe operations to resume.
What’s Next: Investigation and Recovery Underway
Authorities are actively investigating the exact circumstances behind the crash, which closed the busy 1200 block of Camino del Rio for emergency response and cleanup. Residents and commuters in Durango may experience delays as crews work to remove the damaged vehicles and confirm the safety of the railroad infrastructure.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the hazards posed when vehicles lose control near infrastructure critical to public safety and transportation. Updates will follow as new information becomes available.
For ongoing coverage and updates on this developing story, visit Durango Herald.
