On the morning of Wednesday, February 26th, a teenager lost his life in Bartow County, near Cartersville, Georgia, to a train collision accident. Authorities identified the boy as Justin Garland, 17, of Adairsville.

The teenager was crossing the railway track to a private drive when he got hit. The accident happened off Hall Station Road in unincorporated Bartow County.

The investigation by the Georgia State Patrol uncovered that Garland was driving a 1982 Chevrolet C20 when he crossed the front of a CSX freight train that was heading north. According to the train conductor, he tried warning the deceased with his horn.

The driver didn’t hear the warning, and the train was unable to stop. It struck the passenger side of the Chevrolet, and the impact wrecked the car Garland was traveling in, killing him instantly.

GSP noted that the conditions in the area that morning was foggy, and there’s every probability the conductor was not aware there was an intersection on the track. Garland’s family has been notified, and are mourning the loss of their son.

Train accidents involving cars and pedestrians are not uncommon in Georgia. Train companies and local authorities put up warning signs and lights at intersections to warn pedestrians and drivers about the danger of crossing when there’s an oncoming train.

Train tracks are considered private property, and trespassers are also liable to pay a fine. Authorities have advised members of the public to stay off the rails, and drivers should ensure the signs show that intersections are safe before attempting to cross.

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