Elwood — Man Loses Legs after Jumping from Train at BNSF Yard
On Wednesday, Sept. 18, at approximately 2:57 a.m. the Elwood Police Department and the Elwood Fire Protection District responded to 26664 S. Elwood International Port Road, the BNSF Rail Yard, on a report of an injured person believed to be trespassing.
Upon arrival, first responders discovered a 45-year-old man who had both legs amputated because of the incident. The individual was immediately provided with lifesaving efforts, including tourniquet applications, and transported to Ascension St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet for further evaluation and treatment.
BNSF personnel discovered that the subject had jumped off an inbound train. The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation by the Elwood Police Department.
“Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of the individual involved. We are working diligently to understand the events that led to this incident,” said Elwood Police Chief Fred Hayes.
Police said the Elwood Fire Paramedics and Firefighters played a crucial role in ensuring the scene was safe and providing comprehensive lifesaving support during the response.
As of the last update, the male was expected to survive, police said.
The Elwood Police Department urges anyone with information related to this incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.