RED BANK, NJ — A petition has been started calling for the implementation of high-intensity, anti-collision lights at railway intersections in New Jersey after a local teen was fatally struck by a train in May.
Early in the morning of May 13, a North Jersey Coast Line train struck and fatally injured a person by the Red Bank Train Station at 6:20 a.m.
The victim of the collision was later identified as Terry Haupt, a beloved 16-year-old student from Red Bank Regional High School.
According to a report from NJ.com, Haupt was heading home from the YMCA when he was struck.
Shortly after the fatal incident, community member Jeffrey Lucien started a Change.org petition calling for the immediate implementation of high-intensity anti-collision lights (white strobes or beacons) at all railway intersections across New Jersey, in an effort to keep something like this from happening again.
According to Lucien, the lights, coupled with advanced warning systems, can significantly enhance visibility and serve as “a crucial deterrent against future accidents involving trains, vehicles, and pedestrians.”
“Terry's death serves as a vivid reminder of the inherent dangers that exist at railway crossings and the need for effective preventive measures to protect both pedestrians and motorists,” Lucien said. “...Honoring Terry's memory by committing to improved railway safety can ensure that his death was not in vain.”
“Let his story be a catalyst for change,” he continued. “Propelling us to build safer communities.”
The petition urges NJ Transit’s Agency Safety Management Department and the NJ Department of Transportation to take action by equipping all railroad intersections with these high-intensity warning systems to prevent more incidents like the one that claimed Haupt’s life.
As of Wednesday afternoon, the petition has gathered 1,626 signatures. To see the full petition, you can click here.
Since the fatal collision took place in mid-May, the Red Bank community has come together to remember and honor Haupt’s life.
According to a report from RedBankGreen, hundreds of friends and family packed the field at Count Basie Park in a celebration of life for Haupt on May 16.
The event was organized by Red Bank American Youth Football (AYF), as Haupt played for them from ages 7-14.
Within just a day, the gathering quickly grew into a large community event, with local businesses donating food, volunteers and more.
Previous Coverage
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Red Bank, NJ Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.