Full Notification

ROHNERT PARK – On 6/27/2019 at 7:51AM, the Department of Public Safety received a 9-1-1 call of a pedestrian that was struck by the SMART train at the Golf Course Dr crossing.  Officers arrived on scene and located a deceased female approximately 50 yards north of the intersection. 
 
Officers began their investigation and learned that the female was seen going under the crossing arm westbound and tried running across the tracks while a train was travelling north.  According to the train operator, he could see the female going under the arm when the train was approximately 50 yards south of the intersection.  The operator sounded the horn and kept it sounding as the female was crossing.  The female made no attempt to turn around or get out of the way.  The investigation also revealed that all the warning devices on the train as well as at the crossing were operational.
 
Investigators were able to view the onboard video footage of the incident which clearly shows the female ducking under the crossing arm that was already down and flashing and begin running across the tracks. 
 
According to SMART Code Enforcement, they had dealt with this woman several times this week for trespassing on the tracks.  Each time they contacted her, she was aggressive and non-compliant.  The code enforcement officer warned her several times not to walk on the tracks.
 
Investigators were not able to identify the female while on scene.  Here identity will be confirmed by the Sonoma County Coroner.
 
The department sends their condolences to the family of the decedent as well as the train operator as these incidents are tragic for all involved.