What happened
Police say the collision occurred around 9 p.m. at a rail crossing on Kenton Avenue, where a train traveling through the city struck two people who were on or near the tracks. Responding officers and medics found one pedestrian dead at the scene, while the second victim was treated for injuries before being taken to a local hospital. The identities of the pedestrians have not been released, pending family notification.
Response from authorities
Marion police, firefighters and EMS crews closed the roadway and rail crossing for several hours while they worked the scene and assisted the injured victim. Investigators documented the crash site, interviewed the train crew and gathered evidence to determine how the pedestrians came into the train’s path. Railroad officials also responded to inspect the train and tracks and to assist with the inquiry.
Ongoing investigation
Detectives are reviewing any available surveillance video from nearby homes and businesses and are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision to come forward. Investigators will examine factors such as train speed, horn use, signal activation and pedestrian movements leading up to the impact. Toxicology testing is standard in fatal crash investigations and may also be conducted as part of this case, officials said.
Safety context
The incident adds to a series of recent train–pedestrian and train–vehicle crashes reported in Marion and surrounding communities, which have prompted renewed warnings about rail safety. Authorities urge people to avoid walking on or near railroad tracks, to obey all crossing gates and signals, and to assume a train can approach at any time, from either direction.