Champaign Woman Killed in a Crash w/Train; Woman Had Local Ties

A Champaign woman with family in this area was killed early Monday morning in a crash involving a train in Champaign County.

52-year-old Diane Siewert was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash at 1:33am, according to Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrop. Survivors include her cousin, Brian Niebrugge of Effingham. We had earlier incorrectly reported that Brian was her brother.

The crash happened on Cardinal Road, east of Staley Road when Siewert's vehicle struck the train. Champaign County sheriff's deputies say the rural crossing has no lights or gates. The Champaign County Coroner's Office said Siewert was alone in the vehicle.

An autopsy is being performed to determine the exact cause of death.