The Gary Police Department is investigating a Wednesday night crash when a vehicle went around the crossing gates and collided with a South Shore Line train, leaving five people dead.
At about 10:02 p.m. Monday, the police department was dispatched to the intersection of U.S. 20 and Utah Street near Gary’s Miller neighborhood, according to a city news release.
Police officers and Gary Fire Department officers found five dead individuals who had been ejected from a severely damaged SUV following a collision with a South Shore train.
As of about 8:30 a.m. Thursday, no evidence of the crash was at the site.
Preliminary investigation suggests the train struck the vehicle after it went around an active railroad crossing, according to the police.
“The Gary Police Department extends our sincere condolences to the friends and families of those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy,” said a department statement. “You are in our thoughts and prayers, and we are committed to providing you with unwavering support during this difficult time.”
Gary Mayor Eddie Melton expressed condolences to the families of those who died and thanked first responders for their efforts.
“Our thoughts remain with the families during this incredibly difficult time,” Melton said in a statement. “As we grieve this profound loss, I urge all residents to remain vigilant and exercise caution at every railroad crossing. Never attempt to go around lowered gates or ignore warning signals. Trains can approach from any direction, on any track, and at any time.
“The City of Gary is committed to working closely with law enforcement, emergency services, and railroad authorities to thoroughly review current safety measures and identify additional steps to help prevent future tragedies. Safety must always be our highest priority. Every life is precious, and it is our collective responsibility to protect one another and prevent such tragedies from happening again.”
The Lake County Coroner’s Office had not yet identified those who were killed, as of about 1 p.m. Thursday. According to a Gary police release, details on the victims’ identities will be available after families have been notified.
The coroner’s office has not yet responded to the Post-Tribune’s request for comment.
The South Shore Line and Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District released a statement Thursday morning, saying no passengers or crew members aboard the train were injured.
South Shore services were temporarily suspended, but normal operations had resumed by Thursday morning. It is working with the Gary Police Department on the investigation.
“Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragic accident,” the statement said. “We remind everyone to never attempt to cross railroad tracks when signals are activated, and to always expect a train on any track from any direction at any time.”
mwilkins@chicagotribune.com
