Peabody man killed in car-train crash

SALEM – A 76-year-old Peabody man died Monday after he drove his car about 100 yards into an MBTA Commuter Rail tunnel and was struck by a northbound Rockport Line train, officials said.MBTA spokeswoman Lydia Rivera confirmed the man died after being rushed to a local hospital by ambulance shortly after the 5:30 p.m. crash. She said his name would not be released until at least this morning because next of kin were still being notified Monday night.The Salem fire department responded to the tunnel near the Bridge Street station and reported no injuries to train passengers.MBTA spokesman Joe Pesaturo told the Associated Press the victim got out of his car by himself and was conscious and alert before being brought to a hospital. He said he was not clear if the crash caused the man’s death, according to the AP.The accident heavily disrupted service on the Rockport-Newburyport line during the evening rush. Buses were used to transport passengers between Lynn and Beverly.At about 6:30 p.m., approximately 200 people were seen standing outside Lynn’s Central Square MBTA garage waiting for buses.Full train service was restored at about 7:30 p.m.Police and MBTA officials said they have no idea why the driver drove into the tunnel, which is off-limits to automobiles.