4 dead, 17 hurt when train hits Texas vets parade

MIDLAND, Texas (AP) — Authorities say four people are dead and 17 others are injured after a train slammed into a parade float headed to a West Texas event honoring wounded veterans.

Union Pacific spokesman Tom Lange says the eastbound train was sounding its horn before it hit the float Thursday as it approached a railroad crossing in Midland. He says the crossing gate and lights were working at the time.

Lange didn't know if the train crew saw the float approaching.

City of Midland spokesman Ryan Stout says seven of the injured are in critical condition at Midland Memorial Hospital, while the 10 others are in stable condition. He says the crash happened around 4:30 p.m.

The parade was set to end at a "Hunt for Heroes" banquet.