A Lakeshore father charged in a deadly train-minivan crash that claimed the lives of two of his children has testified he didn't see the train.
31-year-old Andrew Williams is charged with seven counts including criminal negligence causing death and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death.
He testified in June 2012, he was returning home after a trip to Tim Horton's with his four children when he took Strong Rd, a gravel road he had never been on before.
He took a detour because the main street in Belle River was closed for construction.
Williams said he was going below the speed limit, he didn't see any train crossing signs, but then heard a noise, hit the brakes and was hit by the train.
The crown argues the Williams did in fact see the train but decided to try and beat it.
Assistant Crown Walter Costa contends when Williams realized he wasn't going to make it, he slammed on the brakes. Williams replied no.
Williams's two daughters aged 6 and 3 were killed in the crash.