Matthew Dickinson, a 15-year-old student-athlete from Palmyra High School in New Jersey, died on Thursday, August 8, 2024, after being struck by a River Line train in Palmyra, Burlington County.
The incident occurred as Dickinson was walking near the tracks on his way to a soccer scrimmage.
New Jersey Transit police are investigating the circumstances of the accident.
The northbound train involved had 29 passengers on board at the time, with no other injuries reported.
On Sunday night, the Palmyra community held a vigil to remember Dickinson, who was entering his sophomore year.
Mike Papenberg, the athletic director and boys soccer coach at Palmyra High School, described Dickinson as “extremely dedicated, and hardworking,” with “a smile on his face” and “extremely unselfish.”
Interim Superintendent Mark Pease noted that Dickinson was “academically a great student, well-liked by all his friends.”
In response to the tragedy, Palmyra Mayor Gina Tait announced plans to discuss safety improvements with New Jersey Transit. The area where the accident occurred is reportedly a popular crossing point for teenagers.
“When school is in, over the crossing, we have a crossing guard. There is an area though that has an opening in the gate that we will have to see what New Jersey Transit will do,” Mayor Tait stated.
The community continues to mourn the loss of Dickinson, with Coach Papenberg affirming, “He will never be forgotten. He’s always going to be a part of the boy’s soccer team, wrestling program.”
Source: independent.co.uk
