MIDLAND, Texas (AP) — A joyful celebration turned to chaos as a train, its horn blaring, barreled into a float laden with military veterans and their spouses on their way to a banquet to honor the returning war heroes.

At least four veterans were killed in the collision Thursday afternoon.

The float took the full force of the train at a railroad crossing in Midland. Some managed to jump clear as the train bore down on the float decorated with American flags. Horrified spectators could only watch as the carnage unfolded.