A train driver has described a ute seeming to stall or hesitate on the tracks before it was hit by an oncoming freight train, killing two vehicle occupants.

The crash happened at a level crossing on Reddies Road, Cressy, west of Geelong in regional Victoria on Tuesday.

The ute was travelling south when it collided with a 1.5km-long freight train that was bound for Melbourne from Perth, according to reports.

Two males, who have yet to be identified, were killed in the ute, said police.

The train driver and one or two other workers were believed to be the only people on the train.

“Our understanding is the vehicle travelling south has come to a brief stop before entering the train line, and for some unknown reason at this stage, has failed to exit the train line,” acting sergeant Jake Andrews said on Nine News.

A white ute is completely crumpled by the impact. Photo: 7NEWS

He said police believed a vehicle fault, or driver error, may have caused the vehicle to stall at the worst moment.

There were no boom gates, signals or lights at the level crossing.

“Discussions and statements taken from the train drivers describe what appears to be maybe a stalling vehicle or hesitation, or driver error when entering train line, misjuding the distance of the train,” Andrews said.

“Tragic circumstances, a tragic reminder that we all need to be mindful of our road safety and take care,” Andrews said.

“[It’s] very sad for everyone involved, all the emergency services as well.”
The circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established and an investigation is ongoing.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.