Pedestrian Killed After Being Struck by Train Near Chico State Campus

Pedestrian Killed After Being Struck by Train Near Chico State Campus

A pedestrian killed after being struck by train near Chico State early Monday morning, February 9, 2026, according to the Chico Police Department. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 1:51 a.m. near West Sacramento Avenue and North Cedar Street, close to the Chico State campus and nearby student housing.

What Happened

Police officers responding to the scene found an adult male deceased on the railroad tracks. Authorities reported that the engineer of a northbound Amtrak train saw a person on the tracks but was unable to stop the train in time to avoid the collision.

Witness interviews and preliminary findings indicate there were no suspicious circumstances leading up to the incident, though the investigation remains ongoing. The train remained stopped at the scene for approximately two hours, while vehicle traffic in the surrounding area was not impacted.

Chico police stated that the man is not believed to be a Chico State student. The Butte County Sheriff’s Office has taken custody of the remains, and the victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities have a preliminary identification of the deceased but will not release the name until family members are notified. Law enforcement continues to review the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Railroad & Pedestrian Safety

Railroad tracks are extremely dangerous areas, particularly at night when visibility is limited. Trains require long distances to stop and cannot maneuver to avoid pedestrians. Individuals are urged to stay clear of tracks at all times, obey posted warnings, and avoid walking near rail lines, especially in low-light conditions.

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Why Families May Need a Personal Injury Attorney

In fatal accidents involving trains, families are often left with unanswered questions while coping with profound loss. A personal injury attorney can help surviving family members understand their legal rights, investigate whether safety measures were adequate, and determine whether compensation may be available through wrongful death claims.

Chico & Northern California Wrongful Death Attorneys

The compassionate injury attorneys at AutoAccident.com, led by Ed Smith, have decades of experience assisting families affected by fatal accidents throughout Northern California. The firm offers free consultations and works on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there are no legal fees unless compensation is recovered.

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal accident, call (916) 921-6400 to speak with an experienced wrongful death attorney.