Wheaton Community Mourns Loss of Student-Athlete

The Wheaton community is in mourning following the death of a college student-athlete, struck by a train on Sunday morning shortly after attending church. The student has been identified by the DuPage County coroner as Tomassino, “Tommy,” Offer, 18, from Washington Township, Michigan.

The tragic accident occurred around 10:15 a.m. in downtown Wheaton. As Offer attempted to cross the Union Pacific tracks, he was hit by an eastbound freight train. Witnesses reported that Offer had initially stopped to let a westbound train pass, before proceeding across the tracks. Metra spokesperson Meg Thomas-Reile noted that the incident is still under investigation but appears to be a tragic accident.

Offer was actively participating as a freshman on Wheaton College’s baseball team. “Our team is grieving,” said Wheaton head baseball coach Matt Husted. “We mourn alongside Tommy’s family and friends. This is a challenging time, yet we find peace in his strong faith and in knowing that Christ is with him and those close to him.”

Before the incident, Offer had attended Mass at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Wheaton. The church officials expressed their condolences on social media, stating that Offer had been a devoted attendee. They held a memorial Mass in his honor and encouraged prayers for his soul.

Husted described Offer as “sincere in all aspects of his life.” He highlighted Offer’s joyfulness and competitive nature, qualities that made him an exceptional teammate. Husted also mentioned Offer’s genuine interest in others, noting that he made them feel valued and important.