A 16-year-old in foster care was struck and killed by a train while walking down the railroad tracks in Dade County, officials said.
The teenager, Manuel Tucker Campbell, was walking north Monday morning when a northbound train collided with him, Trenton Police Chief Steve Beaudoin said in a phone interview. He said the incident happened around 300 feet north of the Highway 136 bridge, and that the tracks were not visible from the road.
“Some evidence shows that he possibly had earbuds in,” Beaudoin said. “Not sure if he heard the train or what.”
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Beaudoin said Campbell was walking in the middle of the tracks, likely taking a shortcut toward the city park. The police chief said local kids are not allowed on the tracks.
“They’ve been told many times to stay off of it,” he said. “They still get out there, and you can’t see them hardly when they’re out there.”
Norfolk Southern is investigating the accident, Beaudoin said, as the train tracks are its jurisdiction. He said the family had been notified, and an autopsy is not expected at this time because “it’s obvious what happened.”
Campbell was a student at Dade County High School, according to a statement posted on social media. The statement said that any arrangements made will be shared through the school’s social media.
(READ MORE: Train deaths continue to raise questions)
“We extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time,” Principal Brent Cooper said in the Tuesday post. “We know many students, staff and families are mourning this tragic loss.”
Norfolk Southern is working closely with the local authorities, spokesperson Kasandra Ortiz said in an email.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our hearts are with those affected, their loved ones and the community during this difficult time,” Ortiz said.
Contact Mason Edwards at medwards@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-9409.