On the same day as the historic Metrolink accidents in Chatsworth between a commuter train and freight train that's left 26 dead and 135 injured, and a commuter train-car accident in Corona that left a woman dead, the Blue Line struck a pedestrian at the Vernon Station.
Apparently the incident was overlooked, as the only references on the web can be found on blogs.
Showing posts with label cab signal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cab signal. Show all posts
Friday, September 12, 2008
Monday, August 11, 2008
Gold Line Accident at the Del Mar Crossing
Metro Gold Line train hits car, 1 injured
The vehicle parked on the tracks is struck about 11:40 a.m. in Pasadena.
Los Angeles Times
By Victoria Kim
August 12, 2008
A Metro Gold Line train struck a vehicle parked on the tracks this morning in Pasadena, seriously injuring an Altadena man, authorities said.
The driver, a man around 60 years old, suffered cuts to his head and hands and complained of pain in his legs but was conscious, said Lisa Derderian, spokeswoman for the Pasadena Fire Department.
The train was traveling southbound near the Del Mar station when it struck a four-door Geo Prizm, Derderian said. Crossings were down when the train struck the vehicle around 11:40 a.m., and it was not immediately clear why the man was on the tracks, she said.
Pasadena police were interviewing the estimated 40 people who were on the train. Surrounding streets were cordoned off as police and Metro authorities investigated the incident.
The man, whose identity was not immediately released, was transported to a nearby hospital.
Also:
The vehicle parked on the tracks is struck about 11:40 a.m. in Pasadena.
Los Angeles Times
By Victoria Kim
August 12, 2008
A Metro Gold Line train struck a vehicle parked on the tracks this morning in Pasadena, seriously injuring an Altadena man, authorities said.
The driver, a man around 60 years old, suffered cuts to his head and hands and complained of pain in his legs but was conscious, said Lisa Derderian, spokeswoman for the Pasadena Fire Department.
The train was traveling southbound near the Del Mar station when it struck a four-door Geo Prizm, Derderian said. Crossings were down when the train struck the vehicle around 11:40 a.m., and it was not immediately clear why the man was on the tracks, she said.
Pasadena police were interviewing the estimated 40 people who were on the train. Surrounding streets were cordoned off as police and Metro authorities investigated the incident.
The man, whose identity was not immediately released, was transported to a nearby hospital.
Also:
- Covered by KCBS
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Accident at Crossing with 4-Quad Gates Sends Two to Hospital
2 Injured In Metro Train/Auto Collision
KCBS-TV
January 17, 2008
SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. ― Two people were transported to hospitals complaining of pain after a car struck a Metrolink Gold Line train in South Pasadena, police said Thursday.
The accident occurred near the intersection of Sycamore Avenue and Arroyo Verde Street around 12:15 p.m. Wednesday, when a 1991 Lexus sedan driven by 73-year-old Violet Youssef of Pasadena broadsided a train traveling to Union Station, a South Pasadena Police Department statement said.
The Lexus was traveling eastbound on Arroyo Verde when Youssef drove under a lowered gate crossing arm and struck the right side of the train's front passenger car, the statement said.
The Lexus sustained major damage to its front end and the train, which was traveling about 30 miles per hour, had moderate damage, police said. Youssef was taken to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center complaining of pain in her lower back but her 20-year-old passenger was not injured, the police statement said.
One of the 40 train passengers, a 33-year-old Pasadena man, complained of back pain and was taken to Alhambra Hospital, it said.
KCBS-TV
January 17, 2008
SOUTH PASADENA, Calif. ― Two people were transported to hospitals complaining of pain after a car struck a Metrolink Gold Line train in South Pasadena, police said Thursday.
The accident occurred near the intersection of Sycamore Avenue and Arroyo Verde Street around 12:15 p.m. Wednesday, when a 1991 Lexus sedan driven by 73-year-old Violet Youssef of Pasadena broadsided a train traveling to Union Station, a South Pasadena Police Department statement said.
The Lexus was traveling eastbound on Arroyo Verde when Youssef drove under a lowered gate crossing arm and struck the right side of the train's front passenger car, the statement said.
The Lexus sustained major damage to its front end and the train, which was traveling about 30 miles per hour, had moderate damage, police said. Youssef was taken to Los Angeles County USC Medical Center complaining of pain in her lower back but her 20-year-old passenger was not injured, the police statement said.
One of the 40 train passengers, a 33-year-old Pasadena man, complained of back pain and was taken to Alhambra Hospital, it said.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Blue Line Hits Pedestrian at Wardlow Station
Metro Train Hits Pedestrian In Long Beach
KCBS-TV
December 27, 2007
LONG BEACH ― A pedestrian crossing a walkway at a Metro station in Long Beach was injured by a Metro Blue Line train Thursday, authorities said.
The accident occurred at the Wardlow Station, near Pacific Place, at 7:44 a.m., Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokeswoman Gayle Anderson said.
A male pedestrian was hit by a train traveling southbound while crossing a walkway, she said.
It was not immediately clear what injuries he suffered but "he was alert when being transported by paramedics to a hospital," Anderson said.
The accident caused service to be delayed for eight minutes, she said.
Also:
Pedestrian struck by Metro train
Long Beach Press-Telegram
By Karen Robes
December 27, 2007
LONG BEACH - A pedestrian was hit by a Metro Blue Line train while crossing a walkway Thursday, authorities said.
A man in his 30s was walking at the Wardlow Station near Pacific Place at 7:44 a.m. when he was struck by a train headed south to Willow, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokeswoman Gayle Anderson.
Authorities did not know the man's name, but said he was alert when he was rushed to a nearby hospital.
Anderson said the man complained about pain in his left hip.
No one else was injured in the accident, which caused an eight-minute delay in service, she said.
The 30 or so people who were on the train at the time of the accident were delayed 30 minutes to be interviewed by authorities, Anderson said.
The last pedestrian-related accident at Wardlow Station was reported in February 2000, she said, adding that the accident did not result in a fatality.
KCBS-TV
December 27, 2007
LONG BEACH ― A pedestrian crossing a walkway at a Metro station in Long Beach was injured by a Metro Blue Line train Thursday, authorities said.
The accident occurred at the Wardlow Station, near Pacific Place, at 7:44 a.m., Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokeswoman Gayle Anderson said.
A male pedestrian was hit by a train traveling southbound while crossing a walkway, she said.
It was not immediately clear what injuries he suffered but "he was alert when being transported by paramedics to a hospital," Anderson said.
The accident caused service to be delayed for eight minutes, she said.
Also:
Pedestrian struck by Metro train
Long Beach Press-Telegram
By Karen Robes
December 27, 2007
LONG BEACH - A pedestrian was hit by a Metro Blue Line train while crossing a walkway Thursday, authorities said.
A man in his 30s was walking at the Wardlow Station near Pacific Place at 7:44 a.m. when he was struck by a train headed south to Willow, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokeswoman Gayle Anderson.
Authorities did not know the man's name, but said he was alert when he was rushed to a nearby hospital.
Anderson said the man complained about pain in his left hip.
No one else was injured in the accident, which caused an eight-minute delay in service, she said.
The 30 or so people who were on the train at the time of the accident were delayed 30 minutes to be interviewed by authorities, Anderson said.
The last pedestrian-related accident at Wardlow Station was reported in February 2000, she said, adding that the accident did not result in a fatality.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Minutes After Killing in Downtown Blue Line Takes Another
Man, 27, Killed By Metro Blue Line Train
KCBS-TV
November 27, 2007
FLORENCE, Calif. ― A 27-year-old man who climbed over a fence onto Metro Blue Line tracks was fatally struck by a southbound train, authorities said.
The accident occurred at 6:13 p.m. Monday, north of the Florence Station just south of Gage Avenue in unincorporated Florence, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority Senior Communications Representative Rick Jager.
The area was fenced, but the man climbed over the fence, he said.
Trains were still running "because we are able to single track through the area," Jager said.
The man's body was still on scene, awaiting the arrival of representatives of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner, he said.
KCBS-TV
November 27, 2007
FLORENCE, Calif. ― A 27-year-old man who climbed over a fence onto Metro Blue Line tracks was fatally struck by a southbound train, authorities said.
The accident occurred at 6:13 p.m. Monday, north of the Florence Station just south of Gage Avenue in unincorporated Florence, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority Senior Communications Representative Rick Jager.
The area was fenced, but the man climbed over the fence, he said.
Trains were still running "because we are able to single track through the area," Jager said.
The man's body was still on scene, awaiting the arrival of representatives of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner, he said.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Gold Line Catches Fire After Hitting Car that Ran Through Crossing Gates
6 Injured When Train, SUV Collide In Highland Park
KCBS-TV
September 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Authorities report a sport utility vehicle smashed through a crossing gate and broadsided a commuter train during Los Angeles' morning rush hour, causing a fire and injuring six people.
The Metro Gold Line train was heading from downtown Los Angeles north to Pasadena when it was struck shortly after 7 a.m. in the Mount Washington area.
The train caught fire but it was quickly put out.
Four train passengers, the train's operator and the SUV's driver were hurt in the crash but the injuries are not considered life-threatening.
The commuter train line carries passengers between Los Angeles' Chinatown and suburbs east of the city.
This is the second injury accident involving the Gold Line in less than two weeks.
On September 11th, seven people were injured when a pickup truck ran a red light at a non-gated crossing in the Highland Park area northeast of downtown and struck a train during the morning rush hour. The truck was pinned between the train and a concrete pillar.
The Gold Line opened in 2003.
Also:
Six hurt in Gold Line collision
Pasadena Star
September 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES (AP) - A sport utility vehicle broadsided an MTA commuter train during the Friday morning rush hour, causing a fire and injuring six people in the second Gold Line crash in two weeks, authorities said.
The Metro Gold Line train was heading from downtown Los Angeles north to Pasadena when it was struck shortly after 7 a.m. in the Mount Washington area, said David Sotero, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
"The SUV T-boned the train when the crossing gates were down," he said.
It was unclear whether the truck went around the lowered gate or smashed through it, he said. Televised reports showed the crossing gate broken off and lying on the ground. A witness told officials the SUV went around the crossing arm, Los Angeles County sheriff's Lt. Ron Kegel said. About 20 people were on the train, he said.
The train was going about 20 mph when it was struck, Sotero said. Kegel said even at that speed, the operator didn't have time to avoid the vehicle. "The train is several tons. Just the inertia of going even 20 mph, it's going to take some distance before that train can stop," Kegel said.
The train caught fire. It was quickly extinguished but the train was significantly damaged, fire officials said. Four train passengers, the train's operator and the SUV's driver were hurt, but the injuries were not life-threatening, Sotero said.
The commuter train line carries passengers between Los Angeles and suburbs east of the city.
On Sept. 11, seven people were injured when a pickup truck ran a red light at a non-gated crossing in the Highland Park area northeast of downtown - two blocks away from Friday's accident - and struck a train during the morning rush hour. The truck was pinned between the train and a concrete pillar.
KCBS-TV
September 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― Authorities report a sport utility vehicle smashed through a crossing gate and broadsided a commuter train during Los Angeles' morning rush hour, causing a fire and injuring six people.
The Metro Gold Line train was heading from downtown Los Angeles north to Pasadena when it was struck shortly after 7 a.m. in the Mount Washington area.
The train caught fire but it was quickly put out.
Four train passengers, the train's operator and the SUV's driver were hurt in the crash but the injuries are not considered life-threatening.
The commuter train line carries passengers between Los Angeles' Chinatown and suburbs east of the city.
This is the second injury accident involving the Gold Line in less than two weeks.
On September 11th, seven people were injured when a pickup truck ran a red light at a non-gated crossing in the Highland Park area northeast of downtown and struck a train during the morning rush hour. The truck was pinned between the train and a concrete pillar.
The Gold Line opened in 2003.
Also:
Six hurt in Gold Line collision
Pasadena Star
September 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES (AP) - A sport utility vehicle broadsided an MTA commuter train during the Friday morning rush hour, causing a fire and injuring six people in the second Gold Line crash in two weeks, authorities said.
The Metro Gold Line train was heading from downtown Los Angeles north to Pasadena when it was struck shortly after 7 a.m. in the Mount Washington area, said David Sotero, a spokesman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
"The SUV T-boned the train when the crossing gates were down," he said.
It was unclear whether the truck went around the lowered gate or smashed through it, he said. Televised reports showed the crossing gate broken off and lying on the ground. A witness told officials the SUV went around the crossing arm, Los Angeles County sheriff's Lt. Ron Kegel said. About 20 people were on the train, he said.
The train was going about 20 mph when it was struck, Sotero said. Kegel said even at that speed, the operator didn't have time to avoid the vehicle. "The train is several tons. Just the inertia of going even 20 mph, it's going to take some distance before that train can stop," Kegel said.
The train caught fire. It was quickly extinguished but the train was significantly damaged, fire officials said. Four train passengers, the train's operator and the SUV's driver were hurt, but the injuries were not life-threatening, Sotero said.
The commuter train line carries passengers between Los Angeles and suburbs east of the city.
On Sept. 11, seven people were injured when a pickup truck ran a red light at a non-gated crossing in the Highland Park area northeast of downtown - two blocks away from Friday's accident - and struck a train during the morning rush hour. The truck was pinned between the train and a concrete pillar.
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Blue Line Hits Woman in Compton
Woman Dashes Across Tracks, Hit By Blue Line Train
KCBS-TV
March 2, 2007
COMPTON, Calif. ― A woman who was struck by a Metro Blue Line train in Compton was hospitalized in good condition, a sheriff's sergeant said.
The accident occurred about 10:50 p.m. Thursday at the Alondra Boulevard grade crossing, said Sgt. Judson Doyle of the sheriff's Compton station.
"According to eyewitnesses, she just appeared to be in a hurry," he said. "Luckily, the train just barely clipped her."
The woman was taken to Long Beach Memorial Medical Center to be treated for what Doyle described as minor leg injuries.
The woman was crossing from east to west when she was struck by a southbound train, he said. The grade crossing is controlled by flashing lights and barrier arms.
It was unclear if the woman would be cited in connection with the accident, pending the outcome an investigation, Doyle said.
KCBS-TV
March 2, 2007
COMPTON, Calif. ― A woman who was struck by a Metro Blue Line train in Compton was hospitalized in good condition, a sheriff's sergeant said.
The accident occurred about 10:50 p.m. Thursday at the Alondra Boulevard grade crossing, said Sgt. Judson Doyle of the sheriff's Compton station.
"According to eyewitnesses, she just appeared to be in a hurry," he said. "Luckily, the train just barely clipped her."
The woman was taken to Long Beach Memorial Medical Center to be treated for what Doyle described as minor leg injuries.
The woman was crossing from east to west when she was struck by a southbound train, he said. The grade crossing is controlled by flashing lights and barrier arms.
It was unclear if the woman would be cited in connection with the accident, pending the outcome an investigation, Doyle said.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
Man Hit by Blue Line Fighting for His Life
Man struck, killed by Metro train
Los Angeles Times
February 05, 2007
A man died Sunday after stepping in front of a Metro Blue Line commuter train in South Los Angeles.
The unidentified man, described as about 45 years old, appeared to intentionally move into the path of the northbound train as it approached 48th Place near Long Beach Avenue, police said. Witnesses said the man was walking near the tracks about 4:30 p.m. when he ducked under a guardrail and stood on the tracks, facing the train, according to LAPD Officer Martha Garcia.
Rescuers got the victim out from under the train. He had suffered massive head injuries, said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey. The man died at County-USC Medical Center. The 57-year-old train operator complained of illness and was treated at the scene. No passengers were hurt.
Rescuers Extricate Man From Underneath Train Victim Reportedly In Critical Condition
KCBS-TV
February 4, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A man who was hit by a Metro Blue Line train and got stuck beneath it in South Los Angeles Sunday was fighting for his life, a fire official said.
The man was reported underneath the northbound train at 4:39 p.m. on Long Beach Avenue at East 48th Place, according to Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Paramedics extricated the man, who was not under any wheels. The man, who appeared to be about 45 years old, was then taken to County-USC Medical Center in very critical condition with injuries that included severe head trauma, Humphrey said.
No one on board the train was injured, but the 57-year-old train operator asked for medical assessment, he said.
It was not immediately known how the man got underneath the train.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the sheriff's department were investigating.
Man Struck by Blue Line Train
KABC-TV
February 4, 2007
LOS ANGELES -- A man who was hit by a Metro Blue Line train and got stuck beneath it in South Los Angeles Sunday was fighting for his life, a fire official said.
The man was reported underneath the northbound train at 4:39 p.m. on Long Beach Avenue at East 48th Place, said Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Paramedics extricated the man, who was not under any wheels.
The man, who appeared to be about 45 years old, was then taken to County- USC Medical Center in very critical condition with injuries that included severe head trauma, Humphrey said.
No one on board the train was injured, but the 57-year-old train operator asked for medical assessment, he said.
It was not immediately known how the man got underneath the train.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the sheriff's department were investigating.
Also:
Los Angeles Times
February 05, 2007
A man died Sunday after stepping in front of a Metro Blue Line commuter train in South Los Angeles.
The unidentified man, described as about 45 years old, appeared to intentionally move into the path of the northbound train as it approached 48th Place near Long Beach Avenue, police said. Witnesses said the man was walking near the tracks about 4:30 p.m. when he ducked under a guardrail and stood on the tracks, facing the train, according to LAPD Officer Martha Garcia.
Rescuers got the victim out from under the train. He had suffered massive head injuries, said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman Brian Humphrey. The man died at County-USC Medical Center. The 57-year-old train operator complained of illness and was treated at the scene. No passengers were hurt.
Rescuers Extricate Man From Underneath Train Victim Reportedly In Critical Condition
KCBS-TV
February 4, 2007
LOS ANGELES ― A man who was hit by a Metro Blue Line train and got stuck beneath it in South Los Angeles Sunday was fighting for his life, a fire official said.
The man was reported underneath the northbound train at 4:39 p.m. on Long Beach Avenue at East 48th Place, according to Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Paramedics extricated the man, who was not under any wheels. The man, who appeared to be about 45 years old, was then taken to County-USC Medical Center in very critical condition with injuries that included severe head trauma, Humphrey said.
No one on board the train was injured, but the 57-year-old train operator asked for medical assessment, he said.
It was not immediately known how the man got underneath the train.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the sheriff's department were investigating.
Man Struck by Blue Line Train
KABC-TV
February 4, 2007
LOS ANGELES -- A man who was hit by a Metro Blue Line train and got stuck beneath it in South Los Angeles Sunday was fighting for his life, a fire official said.
The man was reported underneath the northbound train at 4:39 p.m. on Long Beach Avenue at East 48th Place, said Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department.
Paramedics extricated the man, who was not under any wheels.
The man, who appeared to be about 45 years old, was then taken to County- USC Medical Center in very critical condition with injuries that included severe head trauma, Humphrey said.
No one on board the train was injured, but the 57-year-old train operator asked for medical assessment, he said.
It was not immediately known how the man got underneath the train.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the sheriff's department were investigating.
Also:
- LAFD_Alerts man had severe head trauma
Thursday, January 25, 2007
14 Year Old Boy Killed by Blue Line Carrying His Own Sister
Boy, 14, killed by train is mourned
Los Angeles Times
By Angie Green
January 27, 2007
A day after 14-year-old Lavert Baker Jr. lost his life after being struck by a Metro Blue Line commuter train, his family members grappled with whether his loss could have been avoided.
“He was my heart,” his father, Lavert Baker Sr., said Friday. “I lost a big part of my heart yesterday.”
The teenager was hit Thursday afternoon in Watts as he walked home from school. Witnesses said he was in the middle of the train tracks when warning lights started blinking and the guard gates lowered. A spokesperson for the L.A. County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the train, said an investigation is underway.
By chance, Lavert’s 15-year-old sister, Moneisha, was a passenger on the train but did not learn that it was her brother who had been struck until she arrived at a relative’s home in East Los Angeles. Of 13 siblings, Lavert and Moneisha shared a special bond because of their closeness in age, the elder Baker said.
“The two were like this,” he said, holding his index and middle fingers together.
Lavert, an eighth-grader at Charles R. Drew Middle School, was crossing the four-lane tracks at the intersection of East 92nd Street and Graham Avenue when, his father said, he was “blindsided.” Baker said witnesses told him the guard gates were up before his son entered the train right-of-way about 3:45 p.m.
Earlier reports said he was riding a scooter, but an eyewitness said the scooter was brought to the scene by another neighbor boy after the accident.
Blanca Mendoza, 37, was heading east on 92nd Street and saw Baker standing in the middle of the four-lane tracks that run south and north. Mendoza said Friday in an interview that there was no scooter near him.
“He was in the middle when the lights started blinking and the arms went down,” she said. She heard the train’s horn three times and saw the train slow as it approached the boy, who turned to look just before the train hit him.
The teenager took the same route every day, his father said. The elder Baker was at his home less than a mile from the crossing when Mendoza and another resident rushed to tell him about the accident.
Baker, 51, found his son on the ground as a crowd began to gather. He rushed to his side and held him despite officials’ asking him to step aside. Lavert was taken to St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood and was pronounced dead at 4:11 p.m., said Lt. David Smith of the L.A. County coroner’s office.
The younger Baker, who was nicknamed “Vert Vert,” was described as “comical” by his mother, Marvella Graves, and “full of joy” by his father.
At the accident scene, Lavert’s father set up memorial candles in the shape of a “V” Thursday night.
Friends and family on Friday described Lavert as a well-liked and ambitious teen who was a video game fanatic and liked to play football and basketball. He wanted to be an electrician and go to college.
“He always showed me he wanted to go to college,” Baker said. “He would say, ‘You just watch, Dad, I’m going to be the first one.’ ”
A constant stream of friends and family members stopped by the Grape Street residence Friday to offer their condolences.
To help raise funds for memorial services, the 92nd Street Elementary School is holding a car wash today from 9 a.m. to noon. On Friday afternoon, students held posters they made with colored markers advertising the event.
Lavert was the second fatality this month involving a Metro Blue Line commuter train. On Jan. 5, a male was struck by a train in the Long Beach area, said Helen Gilstrap, an MTA spokeswoman.
The Metro Blue Line, L.A.’s first light-rail transit system, runs from 7th Street in downtown L.A. through Vernon, Huntington Park, South Gate, Watts, Compton and Carson to downtown Long Beach. It carries about 63,000 passengers daily and has a 55 mph maximum allowable speed.
From June 2005 to June 2006, 27 people were injured and five were killed in Blue Line accidents, Gilstrap said. The commuter trains run every five minutes from 3 to 7 p.m. at the intersection where Lavert was struck.
Gilstrap said the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the MTA are investigating Lavert’s death. She could not answer specific questions about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“Everything is under investigation at this time,” Gilstrap said. “The results will take two weeks to give you a definitive answer.”
angie.green@latimes.com
Also:
Los Angeles Times
By Angie Green
January 27, 2007
A day after 14-year-old Lavert Baker Jr. lost his life after being struck by a Metro Blue Line commuter train, his family members grappled with whether his loss could have been avoided.
“He was my heart,” his father, Lavert Baker Sr., said Friday. “I lost a big part of my heart yesterday.”
The teenager was hit Thursday afternoon in Watts as he walked home from school. Witnesses said he was in the middle of the train tracks when warning lights started blinking and the guard gates lowered. A spokesperson for the L.A. County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which operates the train, said an investigation is underway.
By chance, Lavert’s 15-year-old sister, Moneisha, was a passenger on the train but did not learn that it was her brother who had been struck until she arrived at a relative’s home in East Los Angeles. Of 13 siblings, Lavert and Moneisha shared a special bond because of their closeness in age, the elder Baker said.
“The two were like this,” he said, holding his index and middle fingers together.
Lavert, an eighth-grader at Charles R. Drew Middle School, was crossing the four-lane tracks at the intersection of East 92nd Street and Graham Avenue when, his father said, he was “blindsided.” Baker said witnesses told him the guard gates were up before his son entered the train right-of-way about 3:45 p.m.
Earlier reports said he was riding a scooter, but an eyewitness said the scooter was brought to the scene by another neighbor boy after the accident.
Blanca Mendoza, 37, was heading east on 92nd Street and saw Baker standing in the middle of the four-lane tracks that run south and north. Mendoza said Friday in an interview that there was no scooter near him.
“He was in the middle when the lights started blinking and the arms went down,” she said. She heard the train’s horn three times and saw the train slow as it approached the boy, who turned to look just before the train hit him.
The teenager took the same route every day, his father said. The elder Baker was at his home less than a mile from the crossing when Mendoza and another resident rushed to tell him about the accident.
Baker, 51, found his son on the ground as a crowd began to gather. He rushed to his side and held him despite officials’ asking him to step aside. Lavert was taken to St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood and was pronounced dead at 4:11 p.m., said Lt. David Smith of the L.A. County coroner’s office.
The younger Baker, who was nicknamed “Vert Vert,” was described as “comical” by his mother, Marvella Graves, and “full of joy” by his father.
At the accident scene, Lavert’s father set up memorial candles in the shape of a “V” Thursday night.
Friends and family on Friday described Lavert as a well-liked and ambitious teen who was a video game fanatic and liked to play football and basketball. He wanted to be an electrician and go to college.
“He always showed me he wanted to go to college,” Baker said. “He would say, ‘You just watch, Dad, I’m going to be the first one.’ ”
A constant stream of friends and family members stopped by the Grape Street residence Friday to offer their condolences.
To help raise funds for memorial services, the 92nd Street Elementary School is holding a car wash today from 9 a.m. to noon. On Friday afternoon, students held posters they made with colored markers advertising the event.
Lavert was the second fatality this month involving a Metro Blue Line commuter train. On Jan. 5, a male was struck by a train in the Long Beach area, said Helen Gilstrap, an MTA spokeswoman.
The Metro Blue Line, L.A.’s first light-rail transit system, runs from 7th Street in downtown L.A. through Vernon, Huntington Park, South Gate, Watts, Compton and Carson to downtown Long Beach. It carries about 63,000 passengers daily and has a 55 mph maximum allowable speed.
From June 2005 to June 2006, 27 people were injured and five were killed in Blue Line accidents, Gilstrap said. The commuter trains run every five minutes from 3 to 7 p.m. at the intersection where Lavert was struck.
Gilstrap said the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the MTA are investigating Lavert’s death. She could not answer specific questions about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“Everything is under investigation at this time,” Gilstrap said. “The results will take two weeks to give you a definitive answer.”
angie.green@latimes.com
Also:
Friday, January 5, 2007
Man Killed by Blue Line in North Long Beach
Man hit, killed by commuter train
Los Angeles Times
January 06, 2007
A pedestrian was struck and killed by a Blue Line commuter train Friday afternoon, a transit official said.
The incident occurred about 4:30 p.m. as the southbound train approached Spring Street at Del Mar Avenue, said Helen Gilstrap, a spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. The male victim was not identified.
The Blue Line was closed for more than two hours while police investigated the incident.
Pedestrian Struck, Killed By Train In Long Beach
KCBS-TV
January 5, 2007
LONG BEACH, Calif. ― A pedestrian was fatally struck by a southbound Metro Blue Line train in Long Beach late Friday.
The collision happened at 4:35 p.m. at Spring Street and Del Mar Avenue, MTA spokeswoman Helen Gilstrap said.
Kenneth W. Strong, 57, walked in front of the train, said Gilstrap.
Gilstrap said the MTA established a bus "bridge" between Willow and Wardlow Road to take the passengers to their destinations.
"People will not be stranded," Gilstrap said, although delays of two to three hours were expected.
Los Angeles Times
January 06, 2007
A pedestrian was struck and killed by a Blue Line commuter train Friday afternoon, a transit official said.
The incident occurred about 4:30 p.m. as the southbound train approached Spring Street at Del Mar Avenue, said Helen Gilstrap, a spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. The male victim was not identified.
The Blue Line was closed for more than two hours while police investigated the incident.
Pedestrian Struck, Killed By Train In Long Beach
KCBS-TV
January 5, 2007
LONG BEACH, Calif. ― A pedestrian was fatally struck by a southbound Metro Blue Line train in Long Beach late Friday.
The collision happened at 4:35 p.m. at Spring Street and Del Mar Avenue, MTA spokeswoman Helen Gilstrap said.
Kenneth W. Strong, 57, walked in front of the train, said Gilstrap.
Gilstrap said the MTA established a bus "bridge" between Willow and Wardlow Road to take the passengers to their destinations.
"People will not be stranded," Gilstrap said, although delays of two to three hours were expected.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Monday, November 6, 2006
Blue Line Kills Man at Vernon Station
Man Killed By MTA Blue Line Train
KCBS-TV (with footage)
November 7, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train struck and killed a man on Monday night. According to police, he was trying to outrun the train.
A southbound train struck the 31-year-old man at 8:41 p.m. at the Vernon Avenue station at Long Beach Avenue, said Lt. Jason Lum of the sheriff's Transit Bureau.
Witnesses said that the man ran around the lowered arms of a crossing guard in an attempt to reach the other side before the train arrived, said Sgt. Jerry Moya of the LAPD's Central Traffic Division.
"He tried to beat the train," Moya said.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
The train struck the man as it was slowing down, according to Gayle Anderson of the MTA. It was not clear how fast this particular train had been going at the time of the accident.
The Blue Line operated only on one track Monday night for two hours following the accident, Anderson said.
Police: Man Was Killed Trying To Outrun Metro Train
KNBC-TV
November 7, 2006
LOS ANGELES -- A man was killed when he tried to outrun an oncoming Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, authorities said Tuesday.
A southbound train struck the 31-year-old man at 8:41 p.m. Monday at the Vernon Avenue station at Long Beach Avenue, said Lt. Jason Lum of the sheriff's Transit Bureau.
Witnesses told investigators that the man had run around the lowered arms of a crossing guard in an attempt to reach the other side before the train arrived, said Sgt. Jerry Moya of the LAPD's Central Traffic Division.
"He tried to beat the train," Moya said.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
The train, which travels at 50 mph, struck the man as it was in the process of slowing down, said MTA spokeswoman Gayle Anderson. It was not clear how fast this particular train had been going at the time of the accident, she said.
MTA officials shut down the track where the accident occurred for about two hours afterward, Anderson said.
City News Service contributed to this report.
KCBS-TV (with footage)
November 7, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train struck and killed a man on Monday night. According to police, he was trying to outrun the train.
A southbound train struck the 31-year-old man at 8:41 p.m. at the Vernon Avenue station at Long Beach Avenue, said Lt. Jason Lum of the sheriff's Transit Bureau.
Witnesses said that the man ran around the lowered arms of a crossing guard in an attempt to reach the other side before the train arrived, said Sgt. Jerry Moya of the LAPD's Central Traffic Division.
"He tried to beat the train," Moya said.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
The train struck the man as it was slowing down, according to Gayle Anderson of the MTA. It was not clear how fast this particular train had been going at the time of the accident.
The Blue Line operated only on one track Monday night for two hours following the accident, Anderson said.
Police: Man Was Killed Trying To Outrun Metro Train
KNBC-TV
November 7, 2006
LOS ANGELES -- A man was killed when he tried to outrun an oncoming Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, authorities said Tuesday.
A southbound train struck the 31-year-old man at 8:41 p.m. Monday at the Vernon Avenue station at Long Beach Avenue, said Lt. Jason Lum of the sheriff's Transit Bureau.
Witnesses told investigators that the man had run around the lowered arms of a crossing guard in an attempt to reach the other side before the train arrived, said Sgt. Jerry Moya of the LAPD's Central Traffic Division.
"He tried to beat the train," Moya said.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, he said.
The train, which travels at 50 mph, struck the man as it was in the process of slowing down, said MTA spokeswoman Gayle Anderson. It was not clear how fast this particular train had been going at the time of the accident, she said.
MTA officials shut down the track where the accident occurred for about two hours afterward, Anderson said.
City News Service contributed to this report.
Tuesday, April 4, 2006
Blue Line Kills Man at Artesia Station
Man Is Struck, Killed by Blue Line Train
Los Angeles Times
April 05, 2006
A man was killed by a Metro Rail Blue Line train at the Artesia station Tuesday, officials said.
The man, whose name was not released, was walking on or near the tracks about 1 p.m. when he was struck by a southbound train pulling into the station, Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials said.
The station was closed for more than three hours, delaying commutes by at least 30 minutes.
Los Angeles Times
April 05, 2006
A man was killed by a Metro Rail Blue Line train at the Artesia station Tuesday, officials said.
The man, whose name was not released, was walking on or near the tracks about 1 p.m. when he was struck by a southbound train pulling into the station, Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials said.
The station was closed for more than three hours, delaying commutes by at least 30 minutes.
Friday, March 17, 2006
Bicyclist Hit by Blue Line at 55th Street
Train Critically Injures Bicyclist
KCBS-TV
March 17, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A bicyclist was critically injured Friday after he was hit by a southbound Metro Blue Line train.
The accident happened at 5:33 p.m. at the intersection of East 55th Street and Long Beach Boulevard, the Los Angeles Fire Department's Brian Humphrey said.
The man was pedaling his bicycle at the signalized intersection when the crash happened. The bicyclist suffered head injuries and was taken to County-USC Medical Center.
Also:
KCBS-TV
March 17, 2006
LOS ANGELES ― A bicyclist was critically injured Friday after he was hit by a southbound Metro Blue Line train.
The accident happened at 5:33 p.m. at the intersection of East 55th Street and Long Beach Boulevard, the Los Angeles Fire Department's Brian Humphrey said.
The man was pedaling his bicycle at the signalized intersection when the crash happened. The bicyclist suffered head injuries and was taken to County-USC Medical Center.
Also:
- Covered on the LAFD Blog
Monday, July 11, 2005
Blue Line Kills Man in Compton
Man Killed by Blue Line Train in Compton
Los Angeles Times
July 12, 2005
A fast-moving MTA Blue Line train struck and killed a man as he crossed the tracks Monday in Compton, authorities said.
According to Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Bill Heard, eyewitnesses said the unidentified man waited at the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Willowbrook Avenue for a northbound train to pass. He then started across the tracks and was hit by a southbound train, Heard said.
The 6:33 p.m. accident shut down part of the MTA’s most heavily traveled light-rail line, which runs from downtown Los Angeles to Long Beach. Buses shuttled passengers between the Compton and Artesia stations.
More than 65 people – both motorists and pedestrians – have been killed by Blue Line trains since the line opened in 1990.
Los Angeles Times
July 12, 2005
A fast-moving MTA Blue Line train struck and killed a man as he crossed the tracks Monday in Compton, authorities said.
According to Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Bill Heard, eyewitnesses said the unidentified man waited at the intersection of Alondra Boulevard and Willowbrook Avenue for a northbound train to pass. He then started across the tracks and was hit by a southbound train, Heard said.
The 6:33 p.m. accident shut down part of the MTA’s most heavily traveled light-rail line, which runs from downtown Los Angeles to Long Beach. Buses shuttled passengers between the Compton and Artesia stations.
More than 65 people – both motorists and pedestrians – have been killed by Blue Line trains since the line opened in 1990.
Thursday, November 25, 2004
Blue Line Kills Man at Florence Station
Man Is Killed by MTA Blue Line Train in South L.A.
Los Angeles Times
November 26, 2004
A man was killed Thursday by a Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, a sheriff's deputy said.
The man was struck about 3 p.m. on tracks near East Florence and Graham avenues, according to Deputy Tania Plunkett.
Sheriff's homicide detectives were investigating the death, Plunkett said. She said the section of light-rail line between Los Angeles and Long Beach was closed after the incident.
The man, whose identity was withheld pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced dead at the scene.
A person waiting near the Florence station platform fainted and was taken to a hospital after seeing the man struck, Plunkett said.
Man Struck, Killed By Train In Los Angeles
Associated Press
November 25, 2004
A man was struck and killed by a Metropolitan Transportation Authority train Thursday, authorities said.
Nobody on the train was hurt.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene after the 3 p.m. accident, Los Angeles County sheriff's Deputy Carlos Lopez said.
His identity was not immediately released.
The train, carrying 400 passengers from downtown to Long Beach, was delayed for about 30 minutes, MTA spokesman Jose Ubaldo said.
The accident was under investigation.
Los Angeles Times
November 26, 2004
A man was killed Thursday by a Metropolitan Transportation Authority Blue Line train in South Los Angeles, a sheriff's deputy said.
The man was struck about 3 p.m. on tracks near East Florence and Graham avenues, according to Deputy Tania Plunkett.
Sheriff's homicide detectives were investigating the death, Plunkett said. She said the section of light-rail line between Los Angeles and Long Beach was closed after the incident.
The man, whose identity was withheld pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced dead at the scene.
A person waiting near the Florence station platform fainted and was taken to a hospital after seeing the man struck, Plunkett said.
Man Struck, Killed By Train In Los Angeles
Associated Press
November 25, 2004
A man was struck and killed by a Metropolitan Transportation Authority train Thursday, authorities said.
Nobody on the train was hurt.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene after the 3 p.m. accident, Los Angeles County sheriff's Deputy Carlos Lopez said.
His identity was not immediately released.
The train, carrying 400 passengers from downtown to Long Beach, was delayed for about 30 minutes, MTA spokesman Jose Ubaldo said.
The accident was under investigation.
Wednesday, September 1, 2004
Blue Line Kills Woman Pushing Shopping Cart
Pedestrian Is Killed by Train
Los Angeles Times
By Zeke Minaya
September 2, 2004
A 46-year-old woman pushing a cart of empty bottles and cans was struck and killed Wednesday by a Long Beach-bound Blue Line train, authorities said.
The accident occurred about 4:30 p.m. as the train approached the Florence station on Graham Avenue, said Jose Ubaldo, a spokesman for the MTA.
All the warning systems indicating an approaching train — including blowing whistles and flashing lights — were working, Ubaldo said.
With a rush-hour crowd gathering at the station, the woman joined a group of people, including her companion, in racing across the tracks in front of the oncoming train, Ubaldo said.
She was struck near the entrance of the platform and died at the scene, Ubaldo said. "She almost made it," Ubaldo said.
Authorities did not release the name of the victim, a transient, pending notification of relatives.
The MTA and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department have opened investigations. Service to the station was halted for 30 to 45 minutes, Ubaldo said. The 22-mile Blue Line runs from Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles.
Including Wednesday's fatality, more than 22 occupants of vehicles and more than 40 pedestrians have been killed along the Blue Line since it began operating in 1990, making it the deadliest of the MTA's four rail routes. The commuter trains sometimes move at up to 55 mph.
Los Angeles Times
By Zeke Minaya
September 2, 2004
A 46-year-old woman pushing a cart of empty bottles and cans was struck and killed Wednesday by a Long Beach-bound Blue Line train, authorities said.
The accident occurred about 4:30 p.m. as the train approached the Florence station on Graham Avenue, said Jose Ubaldo, a spokesman for the MTA.
All the warning systems indicating an approaching train — including blowing whistles and flashing lights — were working, Ubaldo said.
With a rush-hour crowd gathering at the station, the woman joined a group of people, including her companion, in racing across the tracks in front of the oncoming train, Ubaldo said.
She was struck near the entrance of the platform and died at the scene, Ubaldo said. "She almost made it," Ubaldo said.
Authorities did not release the name of the victim, a transient, pending notification of relatives.
The MTA and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department have opened investigations. Service to the station was halted for 30 to 45 minutes, Ubaldo said. The 22-mile Blue Line runs from Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles.
Including Wednesday's fatality, more than 22 occupants of vehicles and more than 40 pedestrians have been killed along the Blue Line since it began operating in 1990, making it the deadliest of the MTA's four rail routes. The commuter trains sometimes move at up to 55 mph.
Monday, March 1, 2004
Blue Line Kills Motorist in Watts and Injures 14
MTA Train Hits Car, Killing Woman
Los Angeles Times
By Kevin Pang and Arlene Martinez
March 02, 2004
A motorist turned into the path of an MTA Blue Line train at a Watts intersection Monday, killing one of the car’s occupants and injuring 14 people.
The most seriously injured were traveling in the 2003 Honda Civic, including the 45-year-old driver, who was listed in critical condition at Martin Luther King Jr./Drew Medical Center. A boy in the back seat sustained minor injuries and was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.
Nine passengers aboard the train were sent to nearby hospitals for minor neck and back injuries. Three others on the train were treated at the scene. Sara Silvia Tovar, 48, was pronounced dead at the accident site.
Authorities said the car attempted to turn left onto southbound Wilmington Avenue from Willowbrook Avenue about 8 a.m. when the train, traveling about 50 mph, struck the passenger side of the vehicle.
The car then hit an MTA power pole, knocking down one of its support beams.
The car was pushed alongside the rails until it came to rest next to the train, about 200 feet from the site of the collision.
Los Angeles police spokesman Capt. Terry Hara said investigators believe the motorist was at fault because left turns are not allowed onto Wilmington Avenue from Willowbrook Avenue.
“The car wasn’t on the correct side of the street, it was in the middle,” Hara said.
Residents say drivers – as well as pedestrians – are careless while crossing the tracks.
“I’ve seen it so many times
“Once the guard rails come down [drivers] don’t know whether to go back or front.”
Tigerino and other witnesses said he heard the warning sounds of the crossing gate lowering and moments later heard a loud impact.
The 22-mile Blue Line runs from Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles.
Including Monday’s fatality, 22 occupants of vehicles and 43 pedestrians have been killed along the Blue Line since it began operating in 1990, making it the deadliest of the MTA’s four rail routes.
Ten accidents have occurred at the Wilmington intersection alone, including five fatalities, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Rick Jager.
“The corridor has been particularly difficult for us. There are a lot of different exits and intersections,” Jager said. “We’ve worked with the city to erect more signage.”
Still, there are several other intersections along the route that have recorded significantly more accidents than the Wilmington intersection, including Venice Boulevard with 30 vehicular accidents, San Pedro Street with 23 accidents and 20th Street in Long Beach with 20 accidents.
Before 1990, slow-moving freight trains used the tracks, Jager said, and people may not realize that the Blue Line trains are moving up to 55 mph.
This is the third accident on the Blue Line this year, but the first involving a fatality.
The accident caused disruptions to MTA Blue Line service between the 103rd Street and Imperial/Wilmington stations during the busy Monday morning period. Jager said passengers experienced 30-minute delays when they were bused around the accident scene and transferred to another train.
Los Angeles Times
By Kevin Pang and Arlene Martinez
March 02, 2004
A motorist turned into the path of an MTA Blue Line train at a Watts intersection Monday, killing one of the car’s occupants and injuring 14 people.
The most seriously injured were traveling in the 2003 Honda Civic, including the 45-year-old driver, who was listed in critical condition at Martin Luther King Jr./Drew Medical Center. A boy in the back seat sustained minor injuries and was taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center.
Nine passengers aboard the train were sent to nearby hospitals for minor neck and back injuries. Three others on the train were treated at the scene. Sara Silvia Tovar, 48, was pronounced dead at the accident site.
Authorities said the car attempted to turn left onto southbound Wilmington Avenue from Willowbrook Avenue about 8 a.m. when the train, traveling about 50 mph, struck the passenger side of the vehicle.
The car then hit an MTA power pole, knocking down one of its support beams.
The car was pushed alongside the rails until it came to rest next to the train, about 200 feet from the site of the collision.
Los Angeles police spokesman Capt. Terry Hara said investigators believe the motorist was at fault because left turns are not allowed onto Wilmington Avenue from Willowbrook Avenue.
“The car wasn’t on the correct side of the street, it was in the middle,” Hara said.
Residents say drivers – as well as pedestrians – are careless while crossing the tracks.
“I’ve seen it so many times
“Once the guard rails come down [drivers] don’t know whether to go back or front.”
Tigerino and other witnesses said he heard the warning sounds of the crossing gate lowering and moments later heard a loud impact.
The 22-mile Blue Line runs from Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles.
Including Monday’s fatality, 22 occupants of vehicles and 43 pedestrians have been killed along the Blue Line since it began operating in 1990, making it the deadliest of the MTA’s four rail routes.
Ten accidents have occurred at the Wilmington intersection alone, including five fatalities, said Metropolitan Transportation Authority spokesman Rick Jager.
“The corridor has been particularly difficult for us. There are a lot of different exits and intersections,” Jager said. “We’ve worked with the city to erect more signage.”
Still, there are several other intersections along the route that have recorded significantly more accidents than the Wilmington intersection, including Venice Boulevard with 30 vehicular accidents, San Pedro Street with 23 accidents and 20th Street in Long Beach with 20 accidents.
Before 1990, slow-moving freight trains used the tracks, Jager said, and people may not realize that the Blue Line trains are moving up to 55 mph.
This is the third accident on the Blue Line this year, but the first involving a fatality.
The accident caused disruptions to MTA Blue Line service between the 103rd Street and Imperial/Wilmington stations during the busy Monday morning period. Jager said passengers experienced 30-minute delays when they were bused around the accident scene and transferred to another train.
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
Blue Line Hits Cyclist in Willowbrook
Blue Line Train Injures Bicyclist Crossing Track
Los Angeles Times
January 09, 2003
A bicyclist was hospitalized after being struck by a Blue Line train in Willowbrook on Wednesday afternoon, officials said.
The man was hit at 4:30 as he attempted to cross the track after maneuvering around the four gates at the crossing at 119th Street near the Imperial station, an MTA spokesman said. The accident caused delays on the Blue Line for about an hour.
Los Angeles Times
January 09, 2003
A bicyclist was hospitalized after being struck by a Blue Line train in Willowbrook on Wednesday afternoon, officials said.
The man was hit at 4:30 as he attempted to cross the track after maneuvering around the four gates at the crossing at 119th Street near the Imperial station, an MTA spokesman said. The accident caused delays on the Blue Line for about an hour.
Saturday, November 23, 2002
Blue Line Injures 21 Year Old Motorist
2 Injured When Car Hits Train
Los Angeles Times
Times Staff Writer
November 24, 2002
A 21-year-old driver and her passenger were injured Saturday when she drove through a lowered railroad crossing barrier and into the path of a Metro Blue Line train in Long Beach, police said.
It was the second serious incident in as many days involving a Blue Line train.
Three people on board the train, including the operator, received minor injuries in the 6:30 a.m. incident.
Police identified the driver as Elena Taofi of Long Beach. She was reported in fair condition Saturday night at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.
Her passenger, Faamu Lufi Sao, also of Long Beach, was in fair condition at the same hospital, where he was being treated for severe head injuries and a broken pelvis.
Long Beach officers investigating the incident said Taofi was driving a 1997 Nissan Altima west on Wardlow Road when she smashed through the lowered railroad crossing arm at Pacific Avenue, breaking it off its base.
A southbound train entering the crossing struck the car.
Train operator Rosie Haynes, 51, was treated at a local hospital clinic for a shoulder injury.
Two of the roughly 50 train passengers also sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene, police said.
Just one day before, a 16-year-old girl was struck and killed by a Blue Line train south of downtown Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles County coroner's office on Saturday identified her as Angela Barahona of Los Angeles.
Witnesses told Los Angeles police that the girl was walking across the street against a red light when she was hit by a southbound train on East Washington Boulevard.
She died at the scene.
Los Angeles Times
Times Staff Writer
November 24, 2002
A 21-year-old driver and her passenger were injured Saturday when she drove through a lowered railroad crossing barrier and into the path of a Metro Blue Line train in Long Beach, police said.
It was the second serious incident in as many days involving a Blue Line train.
Three people on board the train, including the operator, received minor injuries in the 6:30 a.m. incident.
Police identified the driver as Elena Taofi of Long Beach. She was reported in fair condition Saturday night at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center.
Her passenger, Faamu Lufi Sao, also of Long Beach, was in fair condition at the same hospital, where he was being treated for severe head injuries and a broken pelvis.
Long Beach officers investigating the incident said Taofi was driving a 1997 Nissan Altima west on Wardlow Road when she smashed through the lowered railroad crossing arm at Pacific Avenue, breaking it off its base.
A southbound train entering the crossing struck the car.
Train operator Rosie Haynes, 51, was treated at a local hospital clinic for a shoulder injury.
Two of the roughly 50 train passengers also sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene, police said.
Just one day before, a 16-year-old girl was struck and killed by a Blue Line train south of downtown Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles County coroner's office on Saturday identified her as Angela Barahona of Los Angeles.
Witnesses told Los Angeles police that the girl was walking across the street against a red light when she was hit by a southbound train on East Washington Boulevard.
She died at the scene.
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