Tragic Incident: Pedestrian Struck and Killed by Train Near Disney World

in Syndication, Theme Parks, Travel, Walt Disney World

A SunRail train, numbered 104, approaches a station platform. The station features covered seating areas, informational displays, and nearby buildings, including a multi-story residential structure. The clear sky and abundant sunlight provide excellent visibility as passengers await their ride with anticipation.

Credit: SunRail

A train struck a pedestrian who walked into its path on Tuesday afternoon near the Walt Disney World Resort, and an investigation into the details surrounding the accident, which led to the pedestrian’s death, is ongoing.

Related: Brightline High-Speed Rail Project to Disney World Back On . . . Sort Of

A SunRail train is shown at a station platform. The train is white with yellow, orange, and blue stripes, and a logo featuring the word "SunRail" is visible. The brick platform has overhead shelters and palm trees in the background.
Credit: SunRail

An Unimaginable Tragedy

A SunRail commuter train struck and killed a pedestrian on Tuesday afternoon in the downtown area of Orlando, according to an ongoing investigation into the accident by troopers with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

According to a spokesperson for the Florida Highway Patrol, troopers arrived at approximately 2:45 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon at the scene of the accident on the railroad tracks located adjacent to South Orange Avenue approaching Pine Street.

A circular Florida Highway Patrol badge with a navy blue background, featuring a roped edge. The words "Florida Highway Patrol" encircle an emblem in the center showing the state flag with the state seal, all on a gradient green background.
Credit: FHP/Canva

At the time of the accident, the SunRail commuter train was reportedly traveling southbound on the outer track adjacent to Orange Avenue. According to the Florida Highway Patrol officers, a pedestrian who had previously been sitting next to the tracks stood up and began walking eastward into the path of the train.

A 51-year-old Orlando resident was pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident.

As law enforcement began their investigation into the accident, officers erected roadblocks in both directions of Pine Street, diverting traffic away from the area.

A city street is under construction, with various orange and white barricades and caution tape blocking the path. Buildings line both sides of the street, including a tall building in the distance. The sky is clear and sunny.
Pine Street, Downtown Orlando/Credit: Flickr/Steven Martin

Further details about the accident were not immediately available as the investigation into the accident is still underway.

More About Central Florida’s SunRail System 

In January 2024, Universal Studios Orlando Resort announced a new partnership with SunRail that would greenlight the construction of a SunRail station at the Orange County Convention Center. The station would link the International Drive tourist area to Orlando International Airport.

Related: It Will Now Be Easier to Visit Universal Than Walt Disney World, Thanks to a Brand-New Contract

Is SunRail Coming to Disney World?

In late April 2024, Disney World first signaled its interest in having a SunRail station located within the property of the Walt Disney World Resort, which encompasses some 47 square miles in Central Florida.

Related: Disney’s Decision to Officially Change Walt Disney World’s Name Will Jeopardize Everything

A detailed map of Walt Disney World Resort including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. It shows attractions, resort hotels, roads, and transportation routes. An inset map in the top right corner locates the resort within Florida.
Credit: Disney

According to the Orlando Business Journal, Disney said in a statement that the company was interested in having a discussion about having a rail station located at Disney Springs.

At the time, it was said that the so-called “Sunshine Corridor,” which is located between the Miami-based Brightline rail system and the Central Florida commuter rail system, could include various stops that included Orlando International Airport (MCO), the Orange County Convention Center, and South International Drive.

Disney Springs
Credit: Disney

“We have long been open to discussions around the proposed SunRail expansion to Disney Springs and have been engaged with state and community leaders on the topic,” the statement read in part. “This is not to be confused with the agreement we previously had for a Brightline station that Brightline decided not to pursue.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of all of those affected by this tragic accident.

This post originally appeared on Disney Dining

in Syndication, Theme Parks, Travel, Walt Disney World

Comments Off on Tragic Incident: Pedestrian Struck and Killed by Train Near Disney World