An Aberdeen man was fatally struck by a freight train Thursday night near Pinehurst Resort. The incident was reported shortly after 8 p.m. near the railroad crossing at Morganton Road and N.C. 5 in Pinehurst.
Authorities at the scene told Sandhills Sentinel that the man had been with friends at the resort before walking toward the train tracks. He crossed one set of tracks and then stepped onto a second set, where he was struck by a slow-moving freight train and passed away at the scene.
Officials confirmed the freight train was operated by the Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway. The train was not part of the Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway entertainment trains, including the nearby stationed Engine Room 87 railcar.
Witnesses in the area reported hearing the train blow its whistle as it approached the resort.Â
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the individual’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” said the Aberdeen Carolina & Western Railway on its Facebook page. “We also ask you that you keep our train crew in your thoughts, as incidents of this nature are profoundly traumatic for those involved.”
The company also reminded the community that railroad tracks are private property.Â
On Friday morning, the Village of Pinehurst issued a press release.
“The Village will not be releasing the identity of the individual,” said the release. The medical examiner and appropriate authorities will continue to investigate the incident. The Village extends its condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic loss.”
To sign up for the free Sandhills Sentinel breaking news e-newsletter, please click here.
~ Photo by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Melissa Schaub. On scene reporting by Sandhills Sentinel publisher BJ Goodridge. Written by Sandhills Sentinel Assistant Editor Abegail Murphy.
