A local tragedy provided a grim reminder that active rail corridors in populated areas are inherently dangerous. The latest edition of the Alliston Herald featured a front page article regarding the fatal accident involving a 17 years old youth.

On Thursday May 27, at 8 am Patrick Conry was struck from behind by a train while he was walking along the CPR tracks on his way to Banting Memorial High School. Despite repeated warning blasts of the train’s horn, by the engineer in order to alert him to its approach he showed no indication that he was aware of the impending danger.

After reviewing the train’s video of the incident OPP and CPR police concluded that he was caught unaware because he was wearing a large audio headset and probably listening to music.

Proper signage that warned of the danger and constant law enforcement might have saved his life but providing a safe alternative trail, with a barrier alongside of the tracks certainly would have prevented this horrific accident.

L. Rankin Orangeville