WALNUT BOTTOM, Pa. — Tragedy on the tracks in Cumberland County, after a 15-month-old was struck and killed by a train in South Newton Township, Cumberland County.
Cheyenne Campbell has lived here for nearly three decades.
"It's just a sad day," she said. "You don't see these types of tragedies around here."
The incident happened around 10 a.m. this morning along the 400 block of West Main Street. State Police say the toddler was struck and killed by a Norfolk Southern train.
The tracks back up to several houses along the busy road, including Matt Peters’.
"Anybody can walk up on the tracks, I know you’re not supposed to because it’s trespassing," Peters said.
He's lived in his home just doors down from where the incident occurred, and says dozens of pass by each day.
"It’s probably in the neighborhood of 30, 40 trains," Peters said. "Depends on how busy it is."
There’s little separation between the residents and the rails, just a few hundred yards, an embankment, and few warning signs.
The normally quiet community, at a loss for words.
"Devastating," Peters said with a sigh. "It didn’t happen to me. It made me tear up.”
"It’s just really sad as a mom of young kids as well what she’s going to, what the family’s going through, and their community," Campbell said.
Norfolk Southern released a statement this afternoon saying:
"This is a tragedy, and our hearts are with this family and community during this difficult time. We are working with local authorities to provide any information needed for their investigation. Counseling, guidance, and other support services are available to our train crew and other employees involved."
Pennsylvania State Police Carlisle investigation unit is looking into what happened.
It’s unclear if the child's parents were around at the time, or if any charges will be filed.