A Monday morning train accident ended with one pedestrian deceased.
White County Dispatch responded to a 911 call about a train and pedestrian accident around 7:16 am. Carmi Police spoke to witnesses who advised that the CSX Locomotive and a male pedestrian were heading East. As the train approached the Stewart Street crossing, the RR crossing arms were down, and the warning lights were activated. The train also blew the emergency whistle as the male walked around the crossing arms onto the railroad tracks.
EVWR Train Conductors operated the train during the incident; they conducted the emergency stop but could not stop in time. According to a statement, the pedestrian reached the east side of the tracks before tragedy struck.
The male pedestrian was identified as Joe A. Murphy and was deceased at the scene.
The White County Coroner advised that an autopsy would be completed at a later date.
The Carmi Police Department was supported by the White County Sheriff’s Department, White County Ambulance Service, White County Coroner’s Office, and the Carmi Fire Department, demonstrating a strong sense of community and cooperation in times of crisis.
The Carmi Police expressed their heartfelt condolences and assured the community’s support for the victim’s family, the train conductors, and those who witnessed the accident.
