Tunisian train hits truck blocking tracks, 17 dead

TUNIS, Tunisia — Tunisian authorities say a passenger train has smashed into a semi-trailer truck on tracks west of the capital, killing 17 people and injuring a further 70.

Interior Ministry spokesman Mohammed Ali Aroui said the crash happened at 6:30 a.m. outside the town of Fahs, approximately 100 kilometers (60 miles) west of the capital, Tunis, where the train was heading.

He added that ambulances have been sent from neighboring cities to transport the injured to hospitals.

Tunisian Radio Mosaique said the driver of the train and truck were among the victims.