Tragic Train Collision Claims Lives of Two Children in Illinois

On November 11, 2026, a tragic incident occurred in Western Springs, Illinois, involving an Amtrak train and a vehicle. The collision took place at the railroad crossing on Wolf Road around 8 a.m. local time.

According to the Village of Western Springs, the accident resulted in the deaths of two children. Both were students at Pleasantdale School. The driver of the vehicle sustained severe injuries and was hospitalized. Fortunately, no passengers aboard the train were hurt during the collision.

The community is deeply affected by the tragedy. The Village of Western Springs expressed gratitude to the emergency responders who acted swiftly at the scene. The Village released a statement sharing their deepest sympathies with the family and friends affected by the loss.

“The Western Springs community extends their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of those who have been impacted by this tragedy. The Village is grateful to the emergency responders who assisted so swiftly at the scene,” the village stated.

Dave Palzet, Superintendent of Pleasantdale School District 107, confirmed the tragic loss on the school district’s website. He expressed the sorrow and heartbreak felt by the community.

“This morning, two of our elementary students were involved in a fatal train crash in Western Springs,” Palzet wrote. “Words cannot express the heartbreak and sorrow we feel as we mourn this devastating loss.”

Palzet offered condolences and noted that the district’s crisis response team met with students and staff. Counselors and crisis staff were available to provide support on Thursday, November 12.

The Village indicated that the details of the accident remain under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that the railroad crossing gates were operational and engaged at the time of the accident. The Grand Avenue and Wolf Road crossings were closed as authorities conducted their investigation.

Authorities, including the Illinois State Police and Metra, are involved in investigating the incident further. Amtrak passengers were safely transported away from the site of the collision.