On Sunday evening, May 18, a devastating incident occurred in Fremont, Ohio, when a Norfolk Southern freight train struck a family walking on a railroad bridge over the Sandusky River. The collision resulted in the deaths of a 58-year-old woman and her 38-year-old daughter, both visiting from Fort Wayne, Indiana. A 14-month-old child sustained injuries and was transported to a hospital in Toledo, while a 5-year-old child remains missing, believed to have been swept into the river.
Fremont Mayor Danny Sanchez described the event as a “very, very unfortunate tragedy” that has deeply affected the community. Emergency responders, including dive teams, were dispatched around 7:30 p.m. to search for the missing child. The family was reportedly on a fishing trip, a common activity in the area during white bass season.
Norfolk Southern expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our hearts are with those affected, their loved ones, and the community during this difficult time. We are working closely with local authorities on their investigation.”
The Miles Newton Bridge remains closed as search and recovery efforts continue. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency services to operate effectively.
State Representative Gary Click and U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno have reached out to offer assistance during this difficult time.
This tragic event has cast a pall over the Fremont community, highlighting the dangers of pedestrian access to active railroad bridges.