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A boy was fatally struck by a westbound GO train in Mississauga on Wednesday afternoon, police say.
The boy was believed to be 12 or 13 years old, according to Const. Tyler Bell-Morena, spokesperson for Peel Regional Police.
“This is an absolutely horrible situation for the family involved,” Bell-Morena told reporters near the scene.
Police were called to the scene near a crossing close to Alexandra Avenue and Fourth Street before 3 p.m. for reports of a collision involving a train, Bell-Morena said.
Bell-Morena said evidence suggests the boy went around the barrier and was struck by the train. He said he was with another child at the time.
Police say they have information to suggest that the boys were on some kind of motorized bicycle and were not with an adult.
Bell-Morena said police extend their condolences to the family and their thoughts are also with the train conductor.
Traffic signals appeared to have been working, along with train arms, flashing lights and an audible tone, Bell-Morena said.
“I certainly don’t want to pass on any blame towards the young man here. When I was his age, I was out on a dirt bike myself. And you should be able to go out and have fun,” he said.
“But this is a time, unfortunately, to remind our kids that when they’re on these bikes, to really mind the crossings, particularly at railway passings here.”
Police will investigate the boy’s death while Metrolinx will investigate the collision involving the train, he said. There was a large police presence in the area following the incident.
Death reminder of ‘how dangerous trains are’: Metrolinx
In a statement later Wednesday, Metrolinx expressed condolences to the boy’s family and loved ones.
“We are thankful to all first responders for their quick and diligent work at the scene,” Metrolinx said.
“While the details of the incident are still under investigation by Peel Regional Police, this is an important and sobering reminder of the importance of rail safety and how dangerous trains are,” it continued. “Staying aware at rail crossings is essential.”
GO Train service halted on stretch of Lakeshore West line
GO Train service was halted on a stretch of the Lakeshore West line following the boy’s death, Metrolinx said. The provincial transit agency confirmed the fatality in a statement Wednesday.
The boy was hit by a GO Train between Long Branch GO and Port Credit GO stations, west of the Long Branch GO station, it said.
About 500 to 600 people were on board the train that hit the child and they were transferred onto another train, the agency said.
In an update Wednesday evening, Metrolinx said tracks have reopened and trains are allowed to travel through the area.
“Delays, modifications and cancellations are still possible as we are resuming regular train service,” Metrolinx said.
Police closed roads in the area for the investigation, but all roads were reopened Wednesday night.
