V/Line train hits car at Bairnsdale level crossing, killing driver

UPDATE: A DRIVER has died after a V/Line train collided with a car at a train crossing near Bairnsdale.

A DRIVER has died after his car collided with a V/Line train at a crossing near Bairnsdale yesterday.

The 28-year-old man, from Norlane near Geelong, died in hospital after the train hit his vehicle on Power Station Rd about 6.40am.

An air ambulance was sent to the crash site to transport the man to The Alfred hospital.

Victoria Police spokeswoman Amara Bostock said the investigation was ongoing.

“The exact cause of the incident is yet to be determined,” she said.

The man’s death brings the state’s road toll to 197 — almost 30 deaths higher than at this time last year.

Passengers who use V/Line services through Bairnsdale were warned that delays were expected.

V/Line reported that buses replaced trains between Sale and Southern Cross Station.