KENNESAW, Ga. -- A CSX train hit a Papa John's tractor-trailer after it got stuck on the tracks in downtown Kennesaw.

Chris Watt was nearby when he heard the crash.

"We were walking across the street, on the other side of the road, and we heard a big bang -- saw the train coming through and the 18-wheeler all smashed to bits," said Watt.

Crystal Moore was waiting for the green light at the intersection of Cherokee and Main Streets when she saw the truck stuck on the tracks.

"Oh my God, I was like Oh my God! I seen the driver when he got out and stood by the railroad sign. He was looking under the truck like oh my God," said Moore.

The driver had good reason to be worried because Kennesaw police said he ignored at least eight signs that clearly say no tractor-trailers over the tracks and two additional signs that gave truckers alternate routes.

"Yea, they're not supposed to. There are signs everywhere and the trailer is too long and they can't pull it over without getting stuck," said resident Nick Dorer.

Police said the driver told them he was following his GPS. The driver received two tickets. One of the fines is $1,000. It took nearly five hours for emergency crews to clean up the mess.