WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Two people died in a collision involving a Brightline train and a vehicle on Roseland Drive at approximately 2:30 p.m. Thursday.
According to authorities, the victims were identified as Catalina Gabriel Lopez, 56, and Eduardo Otoniel Gabriel Lopez, 43. Witnesses reported that the vehicle sped away from an argument before colliding with the northbound train.
The crash activated all crossing arms, lights, and warning signals, prompting an investigation by West Palm Beach Police. Authorities suspect that alcohol may have contributed to the incident.
Emergency response teams attended to the scene, although no other injuries have been reported. The train service was temporarily disrupted as crews cleared the wreckage, and lane closures were enforced on Roseland Drive.
One passenger aboard the train, Marianella Mancini, described the moment of the crash as shocking and traumatic, noting the smell of burnt rubber from the emergency braking.
West Palm Beach Police Public Information Officer Rachel Leitao urged residents to adhere to safety protocols at railway crossings, emphasizing the importance of maintaining distance when crossing signals are active.
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.