The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) has confirmed a second train-related death involving a pedestrian in the city in less than a two-week period.
The most recent incident occurred Friday afternoon near the intersection of South Water Street and Pearl Street near the marina.
In an update issued Tuesday afternoon, the TBPS said officers with the primary response unit responded to the scene, where a 34-year-old Thunder Bay man was found dead.
The forensic identification unit and traffic unit are involved in the investigation, which has been classified as a sudden death.
A spokesperson for Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) confirmed Friday’s incident involved a person and a CPKC train around the Pearl Street level crossing.
“No other information is available at this time,” the TBPS said.
Meanwhile, officers are also investigating a sudden death following a collision between a pedestrian and a train on the evening of April 25 near Fort William Road.
No further details about the deceased have been provided.
A spokesperson for CPKC provided an emailed statement to CBC News on Monday emphasizing the importance of railway safety.
“Rail safety education is important for everyone, whether you’re driving, walking or riding near the tracks. Our goal is that everyone makes safe choices and gets home safely each day,” wrote Terry Cunha.
“Trespassing on railway property is illegal and dangerous. Pedestrians must always obey warning signs and devices. People must never walk on the railway tracks and railway rights of way, never use railway tracks as shortcuts, never climb on railway equipment or structures, and only cross tracks at [a] designated, marked crossing.”
As well, CBC News has received an emailed statement from Operation Lifesaver, which is funded by the Railway Association of Canada and Transport Canada.
“Operation Lifesaver extends our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the individual who lost their life in the recent rail incident in Thunder Bay. Our thoughts are also with the train crew, first responders, witnesses, and everyone responding to and coping with this tragedy,” says the statement from Tuesday afternoon.
The public education program, formed in 1981, aims to reduce collisions and trespassing incidents in order to save lives.
“Trains can be quieter and faster than people expect, and they can take more than two kilometres to stop, even when emergency brakes are used right away,” the organization says.
“The safest choice is to stay off the tracks and only cross at marked public crossings. We encourage families and community members to talk openly with kids and teens about rail safety.”
People are also urged to avoid using headphones or mobile devices near railway crossings and corridors, as they may distract them from seeing an oncoming train.
“Anyone affected by this incident is encouraged to seek support through local mental health and community resources. Operation Lifesaver will continue working with communities across Canada to raise awareness about rail safety and encourage safe behaviours around tracks and crossings.”
