Authorities have identified Brendan James Heisey, 22, of Elizabethtown, as the victim of a tragic train accident Friday morning near Messiah University in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.
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Emergency responders were called to the scene at approximately 10:48 a.m. on Grantham Road, close to the university’s South Gate entrance. According to officials, Heisey was struck by a train while crossing the tracks. The Cumberland County Coroner’s Office confirmed his identity and reported that he died from multiple severe injuries.
The incident is under active investigation by the Upper Allen Township Police, Norfolk Southern Police, and the Cumberland County Coroner’s Office, as authorities work to determine the events leading up to the accident.
Messiah University confirmed that Heisey was a student at the school. In a statement, University President Jon C. Stuckey expressed deep sorrow over the loss and announced that counseling services would be offered to students and staff. A private prayer vigil is also being planned.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our university family,” Stuckey said. “We are coming together in faith to support one another during this very difficult time.”
The university’s South Gate entrance remains closed while the investigation continues. Officials said further updates will be shared as new information becomes available.