A quiet Wednesday morning in Chicago’s western suburbs turned into a tragedy that has left a whole community grieving.
Around 8 a.m. on Wednesday, an Amtrak train struck a vehicle on the tracks at Wolf Road in Western Springs, village officials said. Two people were killed, and a third was taken to a nearby hospital.
What We Know
The train was traveling from Chicago to Quincy when it hit the vehicle near the Western Springs Metra station. Witnesses described flames roughly 20 feet high erupting from the car. Officials confirmed that no Amtrak passengers were hurt and that everyone got off the train safely.
The two people who died were children. The superintendent of their school district said the two victims were students at Pleasantdale Elementary, in nearby La Grange, and said the district was heartbroken by the loss.
A Community in Mourning
For the families, classmates, teachers, and neighbors, this is a loss that is hard to put into words. Losing a child is painful in any circumstance, and losing two in a single moment leaves a school community stunned. Local reports say the Western Springs area is reeling. Schools in moments like this often bring in counselors and support staff to help students and staff process what happened, and families are best served by leaning on one another.
Commuter Disruption
The crash also halted Metra BNSF service, with “extensive delays” expected for the many commuters who rely on that line. Those delays were minor compared with the human loss.
What Remains Unknown
Authorities have not publicly explained how the vehicle ended up on the tracks, and the investigation is ongoing. Until officials release verified findings, it is best not to speculate about the cause or about anyone’s responsibility. The families deserve privacy and respect at this time.
A Reminder for All of Us
Rail crossings demand full attention every time:
- Never try to beat a train. Trains cannot stop quickly, and a moving train can take a mile or more to halt.
- Never stop on or near the tracks. If you are in a vehicle that stalls or stops on a crossing, get everyone out and move away from the tracks right away, then call the emergency number posted at the crossing.
- Teach children about rail safety. Make sure kids know that tracks are never a place to play, wait, or cross carelessly.
Our Thoughts Are with the Families
Our deepest condolences go to the families, friends, and classmates of the two children, and to the Pleasantdale Elementary and Western Springs communities. We also hope the person injured in the crash makes a full recovery.