Amtrak Train Involved in Separate Fatal Accidents in North Carolina
In a shocking series of events, an Amtrak train struck and killed two individuals in separate incidents in North Carolina on Thursday night and Friday morning. These tragic collisions happened in less than a five-hour span, rattling the community and prompting an investigation.
Details of the Collisions
The first mishap transpired around 8 pm in Burlington, while the second occurred just before 1 am on Old Concord Road near Rocky River Road in East Charlotte. It’s worth noting that the Amtrak train involved was en route to Charlotte from New York City.
Onboard Passengers and Crew
At the time of the accidents, the train was carrying 106 passengers along with several crew members. However, none of them came to harm in the tragic events, according to statements from Amtrak officials.
Victims Identified
A man has been confirmed dead at the accident scene in Burlington. Identified as 47-year-old Daniel Cameron Wagoner, the man was reportedly walking on the train tracks when he was hit. The railway remained closed for approximately three hours following the incident.
Another man fell prey to the second accident, which occurred in Charlotte. The Charlotte Police Department identified him as 43-year-old Jerome Lydell Nelson. According to their reports, Nelson was sitting on the westernmost train track when the collision took place.
Consequences of the Accidents and Current Investigation
The first collision caused severe delays for the train, No. 79. According to an Amtrak spokesperson, the train encountered a significant delay in reaching Charlotte post the accident. A train tracker confirmed that the train had halted subsequent to the Burlington incident in Greensboro, High Point, Salisbury, and Kannapolis before finally reaching Charlotte.
Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the circumstances of these tragic accidents to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the fatalities. A deep resolve weighs heavily on the community to bolster safety measures and prevent similar incidents from casting a shadow in the future.
Both Burlington and Charlotte communities grieve the tragic losses as they come to terms with the shocking accidents. Details about funeral and memorial services for both Wagoner and Nelson are expected to be released once arrangements have been made by their respective families.
