A tragic train collision claimed the life of 65-year-old Edwin Lebron from East Chicago, Indiana, on Monday afternoon. The accident occurred at the CSX Railroad Crossing on the 4600 block of Euclid Avenue, drawing a swift response from the East Chicago Police Department.
The crash was reported at approximately 3:10 p.m., where officers discovered a green Toyota Corolla severely damaged about 150 feet east of the crossing. According to police reports, Lebron was driving north on Euclid Avenue when he bypassed the lowered railroad crossing gates. His vehicle was struck by an oncoming freight train, leading to fatal injuries. Lebron was pronounced dead at the scene.
Fortunately, the train crew was unharmed during the incident. The East Chicago Police Department’s Traffic Division has opened an investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the collision.
This tragic event underscores the critical importance of heeding safety measures at railroad crossings. The barriers, lights, and alarms are designed to prevent accidents by signaling the presence of oncoming trains. Disregarding these signals can have catastrophic consequences, as evidenced by this devastating crash.
The loss of Edwin Lebron has left the East Chicago community grieving. Friends and neighbors mourn the sudden and avoidable loss of life. As investigations continue, this incident serves as a somber reminder for all motorists to exercise caution and obey traffic laws, especially around railroad crossings.
Authorities urge drivers to respect crossing signals and emphasize that no destination is worth risking a life. The tragic death of Lebron is a poignant reminder of the dangers of ignoring safety measures designed to protect all road users.