Metra UP-W Trains Delayed After Pedestrian Struck By Freight Train In Villa Park

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CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A freight train hit someone Monday morning on the Metra tracks in west suburban Villa Park, bogging down commuters in both directions as rush hour began.

The 38-year-old man was hit by the westbound Union Pacific freight train at 3:59 a.m. near Ardmore Avenue, according to Villa Park police. He has been pronounced dead.

Police said his identity is being withheld pending notification of his family.

Metra spokesman Tom Millers said passengers should expect delays that could be “extensive.”

Chicago-bound trains will operate with significantly reduced speeds at Villa Park, the transit agency tweeted.

Inbound trains may operate up to 15 minutes behind schedule this morning as they must significantly reduce speed past the incident site. https://t.co/L3s0IGa1jP

— Metra UP-W (@metraUPW) February 11, 2019

All Elburn-bound trains were halted at Villa Park until about 7 a.m., according to Metra. Trains continued to run up to 25 minutes behind schedule as of 8:30 a.m.

Traffic crossings were open at Ardmore Avenue but closed at Villa Avenue, according to police.

Commuters were advised to listen to platform announcements or check Metra’s website for the latest service information.

(Source: Sun-Times Media Wire & Chicago Sun-Times 2019. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)