Woman struck, killed by train in Redmond
A woman was struck and fatally injured by a freight train in Redmond late Thursday night in what authorities said Friday they have determined to be a suicide.
Around 11:51 p.m., police responded to a report a Burlington Northern Santa Fe train crew of “clothing” found on the tracks behind Madeline’s Restaurant, located at 2414 S. Highway 97, said Sgt. Curtis Chambers.
Officers arrived and began walking the tracks with BNSF workers, Chambers said. Shortly after midnight, the woman was found near the tracks. She was taken to St. Charles Redmond and later died of her injures from the apparent collision with the passing train.
Family has been located and notification is in process, Chambers said, adding that police won’t be releasing her name due to the circumstances surrounding the death. BNSF Railway Police are assisting in the investigation, he said.
BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas in Seattle said the 66-car northbound freight train originated at Barstow, Calif., and was destined for Pasco, Wash. He said 40 cars were empty and 26 were carrying loads.
“The Redmond Police Department would like everyone to know resources are available for those dealing with mental crisis, including suicide,” Chambers said in a news release.
The Deschutes County Health Services 24-hour crisis hotline is 541-322-7500. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 800-273-TALK (8255).
Redmond Police and other Deschutes County law enforcement agencies can be contacted by calling 541-693-6911. Please go to Deschutes County’s website for more information: http://www.deschutes.org/health/page/suicide-prevention
