NORTH TONAWANDA, N.Y. (WKBW) — Three people were killed after an Amtrak train struck a vehicle at Felton Street and River Road in North Tonawanda on May 17.
Following the deadly crash, Congressman Tim Kennedy sent a letter to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requesting it investigate the crash "in an expedited manner" and if appropriate make recommendations to improve the safety of the CSX-owned crossing.
On Wednesday, Kennedy said the FRA confirmed it would investigate the crash.
“I’m grateful that FRA has quickly heeded our call and has opened an investigation into this tragedy. Deaths from at-grade crossing collisions are all-too-common nationwide and here at home in Western New York. An investigation is the first step, which will provide us with the knowledge we need to make safety improvements not just at this specific intersection, but on a much wider basis. Transportation technology is improving every day, and we need to make sure that our nationwide system has the latest in safety innovations to help prevent future occurrences like this.”
According to Kennedy, it is one of 18 at-grade crossings in North Tonawanda and there was previously a fatal accident there in 2001. Other non-fatal accidents have also occurred there.
In January, a 29-year-old woman from Wheatfield was killed in a crash involving a car and train at the Witmer Road railroad crossing near River Road.
“Our region is heartbroken for the loved ones of the three individuals who lost their lives last Friday, including a six year old boy. More than 200 people lose their lives each year on at-grade crossings across the country. Each is a tragedy, and we need to do more. We need to take the information we will learn from this investigation and turn it into action. The best tool we have here will be knowledge, and I look forward to working to improve the safety of rail at the federal level, just as I have worked to at the state level.”
North Tonawanda Professional Firefighters Local 1333 said the deadly crash happened just before 8 p.m. on May 17 at Felton Street and River Road.
Amtrak said train No. 281 was traveling northbound from New York City to Niagara Falls when it struck a vehicle obstructing the track.On Monday, the North Tonawanda Police Department identified the victims as 6-year-old Ra'Mari Geldart of Buffalo, 66-year-old Olive Geldart of North Tonawanda, and 69-year-old David McMinn of North Tonawanda.
Police said upon arrival crews found the three victims trapped inside the vehicle. Life-saving measures were performed but they were pronounced dead at the scene.
According to Rep. Kennedy, FRA investigations can vary in duration, but the agency aims to complete all major accident investigations within 270 days.
You can find Kennedy's full letter to the FRA below.
