USC student survives with multiple serious injuries after being hit by train, police say

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A student from the University of South Carolina is recovering after being hit by a train Saturday afternoon.

According to the Columbia Police Department, the student was seen walking on the tracks around noon near the 600 block of Blossom Street when he was hit by the train.

According to police, he has multiple serious injuries. As of Sunday, CPD confirmed the student is still hospitalized.

CSX spokesperson Bryan Tucker released a statement on the incident:

“At approximately 12:15 PM this afternoon, a CSX train came into contact with an individual on the tracks under the Blossom Street bridge between Pulaski Street and Gadsden Street in Columbia, South Carolina. CSX appreciates the swift response of local first responders. The individual involved in the incident was transported to the hospital. The incident is currently under investigation.

Regarding rail safety overall: Rail safety is a critical issue. It is very important for motorists and pedestrians to always practice safe behavior when near tracks and trains. Walking on or beside railroad tracks is illegal. The only safe place to cross tracks is at a designated public crossing with a crossbuck, flashing red lights, or a gate.

When it comes to railroads, individual decisions can have an irrevocable impact on personal safety and the safety of others. Federal statistics show that in the United States, every three hours, a person or vehicle is hit by a train.

In 2024, approximately 2,250 people across the country were injured or killed in railroad crossing collisions or trespass incidents, many of which could have been prevented. Rail safety education is key to incident prevention and CSX is working with organizations like Operation Lifesaver (https://oli.org/) to reach as many people as possible with information on how to recognize the risks and make safe choices around trains and tracks.

South Carolina Operation Lifesaver is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives through railroad safety education."

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