Local News
3 killed after car crashes into freight train in Harvey, victims identified
No injuries were reported among the train crew or passengers, CSX stated.
A tragic crash in the south suburbs on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of three people, following a devastating collision with a freight train.
The incident occurred at approximately 12:31 p.m. near 152nd Street and Park Avenue in Harvey, close to Thornton Township High School.
Emergency crews spent about eight hours on the scene, investigating the deadly crash and its aftermath.
According to officials from CSX Transportation, a vehicle ignored the lowered crossing gates and collided with the side of a freight train.
The three individuals inside the vehicle suffered fatal injuries as a result of the impact.
The Cook County Medical Examiner confirmed the deaths, identifying the victims as Kimberly Kimmy Kim, Crystal Jakubowski, and Keith (last name not released).
No injuries were reported among the train crew or passengers, CSX stated.
At this time, the exact circumstances leading up to the crash remain unclear. It is not yet known why the driver bypassed the crossing gates.
CSX, in cooperation with Illinois State Police and the Harvey Police Department, is conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the collision.
Although Dolton police were present at the scene, CSX clarified that they are not handling the investigation.
As of now, no further details have been released, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with the inquiry.
CHICAGO, IL – A veteran firefighter with the Chicago Fire Department was killed in the line of duty early Wednesday morning while responding to a garage fire on the city’s West Side.
Captain David Meyer, a member of the department since 1996 and currently assigned to Truck 29, tragically lost his life while battling a blaze in the 5500 block of West Crystal Street in the Austin neighborhood.
Fire Department officials announced his death during a press conference later that morning.
According to CFD, the fire was reported around 4:00 a.m. and involved a detached garage located behind a multifamily apartment building.
Witnesses stated the flames may have originated in nearby alley trash cans before spreading to the garage.
During firefighting operations, the roof of the structure collapsed, fatally injuring Captain Meyer.
Despite immediate rescue efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
All residents from the adjacent apartments were able to evacuate safely, and no additional injuries have been reported.
Captain Meyer leaves behind a wife, daughters, and a son.
The Chicago Fire Department expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating in a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), “This is a sad day for CFD and for the city of Chicago.”
The cause of the fire and the events leading to the structural collapse remain under investigation.
The city and fire department are offering support to Captain Meyer’s family and fellow firefighters during this time of mourning.
Captain Meyer is remembered not only for his decades of service, but for the courage and dedication he demonstrated in protecting the people of Chicago.