Woman hit and killed by VIA train in Windsor appears to be 'accidental,' police say
Preliminary police investigation indicates woman was trying to cross the tracks
A 71-year-old woman is dead after police say she was hit by a VIA Rail passenger train in the city's east end Tuesday afternoon.
It happened just before 4 p.m. near Lauzon Parkway, between Catherine Street and Lauzon Line.
In an email to CBC News, a spokesperson for Windsor police said "the incident appears accidental."
"A preliminary investigation determined the woman attempted to cross the train tracks and was hit by an oncoming locomotive," police said in a separate statement.
VIA Rail confirmed Tuesday that the train involved was carrying 63 passengers and no one on board was injured.
"Our thoughts, of course, are with those affected by this event," the passenger rail company said.
"To help prevent such tragedies, we continue to urge all members of the public: pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike; to remain vigilant around railway crossings," the company said in a separate statement Wednesday. "Everyone must take extra care to respect signals, never attempt to beat a train, and stay off railway property at all times."
The company said it works with Operation Lifesaver Canada to "raise awareness about the dangers around railway tracks and crossings" through education campaigns and public outreach.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Traffic was stalled in the area for several hours for the investigation.
Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact them.