A man was struck and killed by a train early Friday morning near the intersection of Hillsborough Street and Oakdale Drive in Raleigh, according to police. The collision happened at about 2:30 a.m., and emergency crews blocked the area while investigators worked the scene. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s name or other identifying information.
Police: Scene Could Take Hours To Clear
Raleigh officers told Eyewitness News the scene was active and that it could take “an hour or two” before crews finished clearing the tracks, according to ABC11. Officers remained on Hillsborough Street early Friday as investigators and railroad personnel examined the area. The department did not immediately release details about the train involved or whether the railroad would lead the investigation.
Another Recent Strike On Raleigh Tracks
This incident follows a mid-April stoppage when an Amtrak Carolinian struck a person just east of Hammond Road and I-40, halting service while first responders worked, according to a Raleigh rail shock report. That episode and others in the Triangle this spring have renewed attention on safety along rail corridors that cut through the city. Local transit and safety advocates say repetitive incidents highlight the hazards pedestrians face near tracks.
Trespassing And Crossings Drive Most Rail Deaths
Federal reviewers and railroad-safety data show that trespassing on railroad rights-of-way and risky behavior at grade crossings are among the leading causes of rail-related deaths nationwide, according to a Government Accountability Office review. At the state level, North Carolina Operation Lifesaver has tracked recent trespass incidents; its state page reported 14 trespasser incidents through May 2025 that resulted in 10 fatalities and three injuries. Safety advocates say education, engineering and enforcement are needed to reduce incidents where pedestrians and trains share space.
What’s Next
Investigators from Raleigh police and the railroad will continue to examine the scene as part of an active probe. Anyone with photos, video or tips is asked to contact Raleigh Police as the investigation continues. Local outlets and official agencies are expected to post updates as investigators complete their work.
