Train traffic has been halted after a pedestrian was fatally struck by a freight train at the Lake Forest West Metra station Friday afternoon.
The Lake Forest Police Department, Metra Police Department and Lake Forest Fire Department responded around 12:03 p.m. Friday to the area of Everett Road and Waukegan Road for a report of a pedestrian struck by a train.
A 911 caller reported that a pedestrian was struck by a freight train and was believed to be deceased.
The incident happened on the east side of the train tracks near the Fifth Third Bank.
Lake Forest Deputy Chief Kevin Zelk said officers found the victim, a male in his 70s, struck by a northbound Canadian Pacific Kansas City Southern freight train.
The train was traveling from Bensenville to Portage, Wisconsin, and the crash occurred at the Everett Road grade crossing just west of Waukegan Road.
Metra said all inbound and outbound trains were halted near Lake Forest due to the pedestrian crash.
“Estimated time of delays are unknown but extensive delays anticipated. Updates will be provided,” Metra said just after 12 p.m.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office confirmed the victim had died at the scene.
An autopsy is being scheduled for Monday morning on the victim, whose identity has not been released yet.
The Lake Forest Police Department said they are working alongside Metra Police and investigators with Canadian Pacific Kansas City.
Inbound and outbound trains resumed moving at restricted speed around 1:20 p.m., Metra said, adding that “extensive” delays were possible.
Canadian Pacific also shares service with the Metra Milwaukee District North and the Amtrak Hiawatha lines.
Zelk said train traffic was resuming on one track but roads remained closed in the vicinity of the crash until the investigation is complete.