WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – Two students at Burr Ridge-based Pleasantdale School District 107 died Wednesday morning in the crash involving a train and car in Western Springs, the district announced.
Out of respect for the family, the district is not releasing the students' names or ages, Superintendent Dave Palzet said in a message to parents.
"This morning, two of our elementary students were involved in a fatal train crash in Western Springs," Palzet said. "Words cannot express the heartbreak and sorrow we feel as we mourn this devastating loss.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the family," Palzet added. "Our thoughts, prayers, and support are with them."
Another person was severely injured in the crash and taken to Loyola Hospital in Maywood, Western Springs police said.
The crash occurred about 8 a.m. at the Wolf Road railroad crossing.
No train passengers were reported injured. The Amtrak passengers disembarked and were bused away.
The school district said counselors and crisis staff will be on hand Thursday to support students, teachers and staff.
The village said social workers will be at Village Hall from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday to assist anyone who witnessed the crash and would like support.
Western Springs writer Keith Chapman, who writes the "Western Springs Tribune" Substack page, said the car was pushed 100 yards down the track. Chapman, whose office is near the crash site, said he witnessed the car engulfed in flames as well as intermittent explosions.
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