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Two dead after being struck by train in Wetaskiwin

A railway crossing in Wetaskwin is shut down after a "serious incident" involving at least one pedestrian. C. Johnson for Global News

EDMONTON – Two people have died after being hit by a freight train at a railway crossing in Wetaskiwin Thursday morning.

It happened at the city’s 50 Avenue crossing just after 11:30 a.m., according to CP spokesperson, Kevin Hyrsak. He said the crossing was marked with gates, lights, and bells, which based on initial reports, were functioning.

“Our initial investigation has determined that a train was travelling southbound and as it was coming through the tracks two individuals were attempting to cross the tracks. One of the individuals fell and the other individual then turned around to try to help when both were stuck by the train,” added Constable Karolina Malik with Wetaskiwin RCMP.

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CP calls this a “tragic incident all around,” and offers heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of those involved in the incident.

An investigation is underway, and CP says it is working with local law enforcement to try and figure out what led the individuals into the crossing with an approaching train.

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The affected railway crossing is said to remain closed for the next several hours.

RCMP have not released any information on the identities of the victims.

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