A Dade County High School student was killed Monday morning after being struck by a train while walking along the railroad tracks beneath the Highway 136 East overpass, officials confirmed.
The accident occurred around 11:30 a.m. on July 7, according to a spokesperson for the City of Trenton. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but the young man was pronounced dead. His identity has not been released, pending notification of next of kin by the Dade County Coroner’s Office.
Brent Cooper, principal of Dade County High School, confirmed the student’s death in a statement shared Tuesday morning.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the loss of one of our Dade County High School students,” Cooper said. “Our entire school family is devastated by this heartbreaking event. We extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
Cooper emphasized the emotional impact the tragedy has had on the school community and asked for privacy for the student’s family. “Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as we remember this young life lost too soon,” he said, adding that any funeral arrangements will be posted on the school’s official Facebook page once confirmed.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Further details will be released as they become available.