An Erie Township man has died following a collision with a train while riding a dirt bike, as reported by CBS News Detroit. The incident occurred last Saturday night on Sterns Road at the Norfolk Southern railroad crossing in Monroe County. The deceased, identified as Jacob Buchele, age 31, attempted to navigate around the crossing gates which were reported to be active with warning lights and bells. Buchele's Honda CRF-250 dirt bike collided with the train, resulting in fatal injuries.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, in a statement obtained by ClickOnDetroit, explained that Buchele traveled left of center around the east side railroad crossing gate before he was unable to stop, striking the right side of the engine, despite activated crossing warnings including gates, red flashing lights, and bells; he was pronounced dead at the scene, and he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Alcohol is believed to be a factor, according to officials.
Following the collision, the train applied emergency brakes and came to a stop, as noted by CBS News Detroit. The train's emergency system response allowed for it to halt without causing further incident.
Assistance was provided by the Norfolk Southern Railroad Police and Monroe Community Ambulance, and the sheriff's office Victims Service Unit and Chaplain Program, as mentioned by Audacy. The ongoing investigation is being spearheaded by the Traffic Services Division of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, and anyone who might have information regarding the incident is encouraged to come forward and can call (734) 240-7548 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up or online at www.1800speakup.org.
