On January 15, 2015 at 6:30 p.m., a deceased 33-year-old Guelph man was found by the rail tracks in the area between Alma Street and Silvercreek Parkway. The male has been identified and next of kin notified. A post mortem was conducted at Hamilton General hospital on January 16.
Investigation has revealed that the deceased male was not struck by the train but instead may have jumped onto the GO train as it was stopped at the Guelph train station or as it was just pulling away and hid between two of the cars to hitch a ride. It is believed that the male either lost his balance as the train was moving or slipped when he went to jump off, but it is at that time that he was killed.
The Guelph Police and GO Transit would like to remind everyone about some basic safety tips in regard to trains and railway tracks:
DO NOT attempt to hop aboard railway equipment at any time. A slip of the foot can cost you a limb, or your life.
It is against the law to enter railway property. That’s because it is dangerous. Obey the safety rules and STAY OFF!
DO NOT walk, run or cycle on railway tracks.
Cross tracks ONLY at designated pedestrian or railway crossings. Observe and obey all warning signs and signals.
Train tunnels and bridges are built for trains, not people. If the train comes, there’s no room for you to get away. You can be hit by the train or fall from the bridge. Don’t take chances. STAY OFF!
A stopped train can suddenly start moving. If you are on or near the train, you could be badly hurt. Be smart and STAY AWAY!
Putting things like rocks or wood or cans on the train tracks can cause accidents. When the train hits the object, it can fly up and hurt someone – even you. Objects placed on tracks can even cause the train to come off its tracks and crash. Don’t put things on tracks and don’t go on the tracks. STAY AWAY!
A freight train moving at 100 km an hour needs the length of 18 football fields to stop. If you are on the train tracks, the train can’t stop in time and you can be injured – or worse. Train your brain. Practice safety rules. STAY ALIVE!
Remember – when it comes to train tracks – STAY OFF! STAY AWAY! STAY ALIVE!
For even more tips, facts and stats on rail safety, go to Operation Lifesaver.