Snowplow Driver Killed In Crash With Train: Authorities

BARTLETT, IL — A Bartlett public works employee was killed Monday after a snowplow he was driving was struck by a Metra train, according to the village.

The incident occurred shortly after 8:30 a.m. at Oak and Railroad avenues, authorities said.

The 64-year-old victim was taken to Ascension St. Alexius, where he later died, according to the village.

Mayor Daniel Gunsteen said in a prepared statement that the victim’s coworkers were “stunned and deeply saddened” by the crash.

“This tragic accident highlights the dangerous and often unrecognized work our public works employees perform every day to keep our community safe,” Gunsteen said in the statement.

“We offer our comfort, prayers, and full support to the public works department and all village staff, who are understandably devastated and shaken by the loss of their colleague, friend, and valued member of their work family. ... Our hearts go out to everyone who knew and loved him.”

The Metra line was temporarily stopped after the collision, but no passengers were hurt on the Elgin-bound train, according to the village, which said Oak and Western avenues were temporarily closed at Railroad Avenue.

Metra police are leading an investigation into the incident, authorities said.

In December, a Naperville city contractor was also killed when snow removal equipment he was operating was struck by a freight train.