Man dies on railroad tracks

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, June 19, 2013

SALISBURY — A Spencer man was struck and killed by a Norfolk Southern train Tuesday morning near the 11th Street crossing.

Salisbury Police and fire and other emergency crews were called to the scene shortly after the accident about 11:30 a.m.

Officers said foul play does not appear to have been a factor.

Salisbury Police Capt. Shelia Lingle said the train was traveling south towards Salisbury at about 25 mph when the person was hit.

Lingle said train operators told police the man walked out from behind an adjacent train and lay down in front of the oncoming train.

“They couldn’t stop in time. They blew the horns several times and hit the brakes,” Lingle said.

The victim’s name is being withheld pending notification of the family.

Officers were joined by Rowan County Emergency Medical Services and the Rowan Rescue Squad in assisting in the investigation.