VILLA PARK, Ill. (Sun-Times Media Wire) - A freight train hit someone Monday morning on the Metra tracks in west suburban Villa Park, bogging down commuters in both directions as rush hour began.
The 38-year-old man was hit by the westbound Union Pacific freight train at 3:59 a.m. near Ardmore Avenue, according to Villa Park police. He has been pronounced dead.
Police said his identity is being withheld pending notification of his family.
Metra spokesman Tom Millers said passengers should expect delays that could be “extensive.”
Chicago-bound trains will operate with significantly reduced speeds at Villa Park, the transit agency tweeted.
All Elburn-bound trains were halted at Villa Park until about 7 a.m., according to Metra. Trains continued to run up to 25 minutes behind schedule as of 8:30 a.m.
Traffic crossings were open at Ardmore Avenue but closed at Villa Avenue, according to police.
Commuters were advised to listen to platform announcements or check Metra’s website for the latest service information.