Bartlett snowplow driver dies after vehicle struck by Metra train

Metra MD-W train hits snow removal vehicle

A Metra MD-W train hit a small snow plow, causing extensive delays Monday morning in the western suburbs.

BARTLETT, Ill. - A Village of Bartlett public works employee died Monday morning after the snowplow he was driving was struck by a Metra train.

What we know:

The collision happened at about 8:35 a.m. at the intersection of Oak Avenue and Railroad Avenue in the western suburbs.

Bartlett police and firefighters responded and provided medical care to the employee, a 64-year-old man, who was taken to St. Alexius Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

The Metra passenger train was traveling toward Elgin when it struck the man's small snowplow vehicle, police said. No passengers on the train were hurt.

Train service was temporarily halted at the Bartlett stop following the crash, and the northbound and southbound lanes of Oak Avenue and Western Avenue at Railroad Avenue were closed for a time.

What we don't know:

The identity of the man is still unknown, and details of how exactly the collision occurred remain unclear.

What they're saying:

"Village of Bartlett officials and staff were stunned and deeply saddened this morning by the sudden death of Public Works employee. He was operating a small snowplow vehicle near the Bartlett Metra station when he was struck by an Elgin-bound Metra passenger train. He was transported to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. This tragic accident highlights the dangerous and often unrecognized work our Public Works employees perform every day to keep our community safe. We offer our comfort, prayers, and full support to the Public Works Department and all Village staff, who are understandably devastated and shaken by the loss of their colleague, friend, and valued member of their work family. Above all, we extend our deepest condolences to his wife and to all of his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Our hearts go out to everyone who knew and loved him. He will be remembered for his dedication, service, and the positive impact he had on our community. On behalf of the entire Village of Bartlett, we mourn this profound loss and stand with his family and our Public Works team in their grief," said a statement from Bartlett Mayor Daniel Gunsteen.

What's next:

The Metra Police Department is leading the investigation into the crash.

For real-time updates on Metra MD-W service, head over to their website.