Smokey Barn News, Date: May 30, 2013
Police are asking for the community’s help to identify a woman hit by a train early Thursday morning. At approximately 2:00AM officers were dispatched to the train track crossing at Richard St in Springfield in reference to a pedestrian being struck by a train. When officers arrived, the pedestrian was found deceased at the scene.
The identity of the pedestrian is unknown at this time and no identification was found at the scene.
The pedestrian description is a Black Female, 20’s-30’s, Heavy Set, Hair in a Bun, Wearing Purple/Black Sneakers, Black T-Shirt, Black Pants and had a Tattoo Of A Butterfly On Her Left Wrist.
Springfield Police along with Officials from CSX Railroad are investigating the case.
According to Springfield Police Chief David Thompson, the woman was seen laying on the tracks by the train’s conductor but there was not sufficient time to stop the train. Engineers for the train services indicated that the warning systems at that intersection were in proper working condition. As of this morning, the investigation was leaning towards “intentional”, Said Chief Thompson.
Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact Springfield Police at 615-384-8422.
UPDATE: 3:55PM Thursday
Springfield Police have released the following statement on the victim.
Victim Identified
“The victim of this morning’s train incident in which a person positioned themself in the path of a north bound CSX train has been identified as 28 year old Erica Dowlen of Springfield. The investigation into this matter is ongoing.”
We went to school together and had a lot of good times back then,my heart goes out to your family and friends.I will miss you girl and I pray you are resting in gods arms.
My dearest cousin words can’t express how much u ment to me. We always had something funny to say to one another, I will never forget the day u came and stayed with me and how much we talked. I enjoyed our time and laughs together, we had a lot in common. And ima miss you more each day. I wish u could’ve been here to see ur lil cousin born. She’ll be here mon. And I would’ve loved for u to see her…..but u will in spirit….I knw it. I love you fam. Rest easy. Til we meet again….u will always be in my heart….
My prayers go out to the family of this lady. If she has children i will be praying for you and your family and for the best. If this was not an accident i hope whoever did this knows that GOD is up there watching down and knows and sees all. my best to the family. so so so sorry for this bad happening and i will be praying.
Prayers go to the family may she rest in piece RIP Erica
God be with this family as they grieve for the lose of their loved one. Our prayers are with your family. R.I.P.
I love u Erica! U were a great friend & cousin!! I could talk to you about anything & you always gave great advice. Everywhere she went she had a smile so bright and heart so big she could pull u out the the deepest slumber! Rest easy baby. Your pain is gone!