Fatal Juvenile Bicyclist vs. Train Collision

Riverside, Ca-  On Wednesday August 25, at about 1:50 PM, Riverside Police Officers responded to the area of Third Street and Commerce Street to investigate reports of an injury traffic collision involving a Burlington Northern/Santa Fe railroad train. Upon arrival the officers discovered the train had struck a juvenile bicyclist.

The bicyclist, Erik Sanchez, 15 years old from Riverside, was traveling east on Third Street as he approached the railroad intersection. As an opposing southbound train activated the railroad signal, the bicyclist crossed into the westbound lanes of Third Street and maneuvered around the downed arms. The front locomotive engine hit the bicyclist as he attempted to cross the tracks and beat the train through the intersection.

Riverside Fire and AMR paramedics responded and pronounced the juvenile deceased at the scene due to his sustained injuries.

Members of the department’s Traffic Bureau responded and investigated the collision in conjunction with representatives from the Burlington Northern/Santa Fe Railroad Company.

Anyone with information related to this investigation is urged to contact Detective Dwayne May at (951) 826-5179.