Texting driver runs into train

A driver who reportedly was texting on his cell phone hit a train in Queen Creek Wednesday afternoon.



According to Tim Gaffney with the Pinal County Sheriff's Office, Jason Michael Hair, 30, was driving a 2005 Pontiac sedan westbound on Arizona Farms Road and his 4-year-old son was with him.


Gaffney said a driver Hair passed reported that he was traveling at approximately 65 mph and was texting on his cell phone prior to the crash.

Gaffney said the lights were flashing and the crossing arms were down, but Hair did not notice the Union Pacific train until it was too late.

Hair attempted to stop but drove through the railway arms and into the side of the train. The car rolled over onto its roof, trapping Hair and his son inside.


Medical personnel were able to extricate the father and son and both were airlifted to the Maricopa Medical Center. Hair reportedly had a head injury and his son was transported for precautionary reasons.


There is no word on their conditions at this time.


Gaffney said Hair was using a seat belt and his son was properly secured in a child safety seat at the time of the crash.


According to a recent study by the American Automobile Association, the risk of a car accident increases by 50 percent for people who text message while driving.