A teenage girl died Sunday in Maple Ridge after being struck by a freight train while walking along the railway tracks and wearing headphones in her ears.
The 16-year-old was identified Monday by Ridge Meadows RCMP as Tiffany Williams.
Police believe she did not see or hear the train when she was hit just before 1 p.m. at 203rd Street and Hammond Road.
“This is a very tragic and sad event,” said Cpl. Alanna Dunlop.
“Tiffany was walking along the railroad tracks and it appears she did not realize there was an approaching train. Despite all the efforts to catch the teen’s attention and stop the train, it struck and killed the girl.”
Investigators believe Williams may have been distracted as she was wearing headphones, listening to music and texting.
Williams’ mother also alluded to her being distracted in a post on Facebook.
“Lost my daughter today, only 16 walking down the train tracks with her head phones on … I’m empty inside. I love u baby girl until we meet again Tiffany Williams rest in peace baby,” wrote Miranda Williams.
Sara Defoe, a friend of the family, has started online fundraiser for them.
“As we all can only imagine what the family is going through, we are starting this page at a low fundraiser goal to ensure they receive some financial relief,” wrote Defoe.
“All money raised is to help the family of the monetary stress that can come from such an unbelievable loss. Tiffany was an amazing little girl and will be dearly missed by her family and friends forever.”
RCMP remind residents that the area surrounding railroad tracks is private property.
“Caution must be exercised whenever persons are around the tracks or trains,” said Dunlop.
The coroner has taken charge of the investigation. Ridge Meadows RCMP and CP Police will assist with them.
“Police want to pass along their condolences to Tiffany’s family,” added Dunlop.
Donate
To donate to the Williams’ family, visit GoFundMe.
