Woman struck, killed by freight train

A woman was struck and killed by a freight train Friday night in Wasilla, according to the Alaska Railroad (ARR).

According to a press release from the Wasilla Police Department, on May 3, 2024, at approximately 9:45 p.m., WPD responded to reports of a woman being struck by a train at the railroad tracks near the intersection of Hermon Road and Old Matanuska Road.

ARR crew members on a northbound train traveling on the railroad's main line spotted a woman, identified as 48 year-old Diana Wilson, lying in between the tracks as the train approached. The crew was unable to stop the train in time to prevent the collision, according to a railroad spokeswoman. After stopping the train, crew members notified emergency services about the collision, and Alaska Railroad Police and Alaska State Troopers responded to the scene, according to the railroad.

Upon arrival, multiple officers attempted lifesaving measures on the individual who was struck, but she was ultimately declared deceased at the scene.

It is currently unknown what led to Wilson being on the tracks. The investigation into the circumstances is ongoing. Wilson’s next of kin has

The 4,700-foot freight train was en route from Anchorage to Fairbanks when the strike occurred, the railroad spokesperson said.

An investigation by troopers, the Wasilla Police Department and the Alaska Railroad is ongoing.