Valhalla High School Student Killed By Metro-North Train
A 16-year-old Valhalla High School student was struck and killed by a Metro-North train at the Valhalla station Monday morning.
A Metro-North spokesperson said the accident occurred at 7:45 a.m. when the Grand Central-bound Harlem line train that left Wassaic at 6:28 a.m. struck the girl on the tracks at Cleveland Avenue.
It was not immediately known why the girl was on the tracks.
The girl was rushed to Westchester Medical Center in critical condition. On Monday afternoon, the Valhalla School District reported that the Mount Pleasant Police Department told school officials the victim had died from her injuries. Police are currently investigating the accident.
The district issued a statement that the identity of the student was being withheld at the request of her parents.
“Valhalla’s thoughts and support go to her family and friends at this difficult time,” the district’s statement read.
District officials said a team of counselors and administrators met with high school students this morning to share the news and notify them that district counselors and trained crisis counselors would be available to help the community deal with the loss.
Members of the school’s Emergency Response Team will be hosting a meeting for parents and community members in the near future providing information about common reactions following a student’s death and how adults can help children cope. They will also provide general information about adolescent mental health and will address attendees’ questions and concerns.
