DRAMATIC footage shows the moment a freight train crashes into a massive truck carrying a military tank just a few seconds after a driver escaped.

The horror smash at a railroad crossing in Goose Creek, in South Carolina, US.

Shocking footage shows the train crashing into the 18-wheeled tractor-trailer as it crosses the tracks while debris can be seen in the air.

Debris can be seen flying into the air as the train collides with the 18-wheeled tractor-trailer as it tries to cross the tracks. 

Cops from the Goose Creek Police Department were alerted about the crash around 12:40pm on Thursday WCSC reports.

Police spokesperson Austin Staton said a “lowboy semi-truck” was struck by a CSX train.

Cops said the truck’s trailer got stuck on the tracks while driving over the rail crossing.

A shocked witness said the driver desperately tried to free the vehicle until he managed to escape just seconds before the train struck.

Sonya Pitt said: “At that point, the arms started coming down, and we came out here walking real fast to try and get over, tell him to get out of the truck, and he jumped out of the truck and the train was coming.

“And maybe five seconds later the train hit and destroyed everything.”

There were no injuries and the driver refused treatment.

Liberty Hall and Red Bank Roads were both temporarily closed.

It is believed that the military vehicle was an M109 howitzer.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.

Police said: CSX appreciates the quick response of Goose Creek Police and Fire. …

“It’s also important to note that at CSX, safety is our top priority. We’d like to remind motorist to pay attention and adhere to posted signs and warnings while approaching rail crossings.”