Freight train hits, kills worker removing snow near Naperville station: officials

NAPERVILLE, Ill. (WLS) -- A Naperville contractor has died after being hit by a freight train while removing snow on Monday night, officials said.

The city of Naperville said police and fire officials responded to the train station at 105 E. 4th Avenue.



A BNSF freight train, heading eastbound, struck snow removal equipment operated by a man working as a contractor on the station's south platform.

The man died from his injuries, the city said.



The collision disrupted Metra BNSF inbound and outbound trains on Monday evening.

Authorities did not immediately provide further information.

The city issued a statement, saying, "This is a profound tragedy, and on behalf of the City of Naperville, I extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Our employees and contractors deliver vital services to the community daily, and their safety is of paramount importance to us. The loss of life in this manner is heartbreaking.

We express our gratitude to the Naperville Police and Fire Departments, and Metra Police for their swift and professional handling of the scene. The City is committed to supporting our staff through this challenging period and will cooperate fully with the Metra Police Department's ongoing investigation into this incident."