MARRIOTT-SLATERVILLE, June 6, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — An Ogden woman was struck and killed by a train Wednesday afternoon as she walked on the tracks apparently oblivious to the train.
The 62-year-old was walking westbound on the tracks near 2000 W 12th Street when she was hit by the westbound Union Pacific train, Weber County Sheriff’s Lt. Colby Ryan said. “We’re still trying to figure out why she was walking on the tracks.”
Union Pacific engineers and a witness saw the woman with her back to the train, he said, and alerted emergency dispatch at 4:21 p.m. Engineers began safety protocols, sounding alarms and braking. Traveling at 25 to 25 mph, Ryan said it took several hundred feet for the train to stop, but not in time to avoid the collision.
“There doesn’t seem to be any indication she turned around, or ever heard the train,” Ryan said. “We’re trying to contact relatives to find out what she was doing there.”
The train didn’t roll over the woman, he said, as she as knocked clear of the tracks
She was alone on the tracks, he said. Her name has not been released pending notifications of next of kin.
When Union Pacific called dispatch initial reports indicated a group of people by the tracks possibly playing a bizarre game of jumping through the passing train cars. Ryan said investigation so far doesn’t include such activity, which he said is something he’s never heard of. “But that’s not to say it doesn’t happen.”
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, including prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. To speak with a trained listener, call 988.
The Crisis Text Line is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To contact a trained listener, text HELLO to 741741. It is also free, available 24/7, and confidential.
Talking with someone about your thoughts and feelings can save your life.
