Senior citizen in wheelchair killed by train in Houston's Fifth Ward

A tragic incident occurred in Houston's Fifth Ward when a senior citizen in a wheelchair was struck and killed by a train at the intersection of Lyons Avenue and St. Elmo Street just before noon on a Monday. Eyewitnesses reported that the train had been stationary for a short period, but local residents noted that trains often stop for extended durations, leading to dangerous situations. This incident has raised concerns among community members who have been advocating for safety improvements in the area for years. Residents expressed their frustration over the lack of action taken by city and state officials despite numerous meetings addressing railroad safety issues. They highlighted that this was not an isolated incident, as there have been previous fatalities on the same tracks. The community has been vocal about the need for changes to prevent further tragedies, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. State Representative Harold Dutton confirmed that a community meeting focused on railroad safety was held recently, indicating ongoing efforts to address these concerns. Councilwoman Leticia Plummer also mentioned her office's long-standing commitment to improving safety measures in the area. However, despite these efforts, residents feel that little progress has been made. The death of the senior citizen has reignited discussions about the need for immediate action to enhance safety around the railroad tracks. Community members are determined to continue advocating for changes to prevent future accidents and ensure the safety of all residents in the Fifth Ward.