One child is dead and the search for a second child is underway after Union Pacific Railroad reported that two were struck by a train on the railroad bridge south of Erie near 115th Road. According to the Neosho County Sheriff’s Office, two juveniles were crossing the bridge and were unable to outrun the train.
The search for the second child included a response from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks with personnel, a drone and a boat. The Kansas Highway Patrol also sent numerous personnel, helicopter, and search dogs.
A spokesperson for the Neosho County Sheriff's Office did note that the search is most likely a recovery effort rather than a rescue, pointing out that the Neosho River is rising, nearly bank full, and is full of debris with a very swift current.