1 killed, 2 injured after train collides with pickup in Elgin

ELGIN, Ill. (WGN) — One person was killed and two others injured Thursday when a train collided with a pickup truck in Elgin.

According to police and Union Pacific, a train collided with the truck around 6:30 a.m. at the railroad crossing at State Street north of Locust Street.

Authorities said a 56-year-old man, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other adults were taken to the hospital.

A statement from Cornerstone Partners Horticultural Services Company released Thursday afternoon said the person who was killed was an employee as were the two people who were injured.

“We are profoundly saddened and heartbroken by the tragedy that occurred today involving our crew. The entire Cornerstone Partners family is trying to process this horrific incident. We can confirm the loss of one dedicated team member and injuries to two others, who are currently receiving medical care,” the statement said. “At this moment, our absolute focus is on supporting the families and employees impacted by providing all necessary resources.”

Union Pacific said no one on the train was injured.

What exactly led up to the crash is still under investigation, but several people said they never heard the chime signaling an approaching train.

Area residents shared their heartbreak and concern.

“This is so sad for a person to try to make a living and try to be safe,” Janette Levy, who heard the crash, said. “I did hear the train whistle and after the train whistle there was a big crash, and then people started coming out everywhere.”

Throughout the day, railroad employees appeared to be testing equipment at the crossing.

Elgin police said there will be temporary stop signs at the crossing until the investigation with Union Pacific wraps up.

Other precautionary measures include a stop and protect protocol where a train conductor will make sure all traffic is stopped before the train proceeds.

Residents said they hope from change comes from this tragedy, with more measures in place to also keep pedestrians safe in the busy area.

“Living by trains, you kind of have it in the back of your mind that something like that could happen, but to see it happen was scary and tragic,” Taniya Tillmon, who heard the crash said. “I just pray for the families that were involved.”

The Elgin Police Department Traffic Unit is continuing to investigate and asks anyone with any information to contact them at 847-289-2660.

SkyCam 9 was over the scene where the badly damaged vehicle could be seen as crews conducted their investigation.

State Street between National and Chicago was shut down for several hours as police investigated.