Freeport man dies after being struck by train in Portland

(Portland, ME) November 12, 2024 – A Freeport man died last Friday from injuries sustained after he was struck by a train in Portland on Thursday. According to the Portland police, 42-year-old Christopher Scott was struck by a train in the area behind a business on Saint James Street around 1:35 p.m. No charges have been filed at this time according to authorities. The incident is being investigated by the Portland Police Department, Amtrak Railroad Police, and CSX Rail.

“A tragic and unfortunate reminder that rail safety is critically important,” said Paul Drinan, Bicycle Coalition of Maine active transportation director. “Pedestrians should always follow the warnings and signs posted at train platforms. Active rail corridors are inherently dangerous places and should be avoided.”

The BCM encourages all people to exercise caution when near rail lines, and urges law enforcement and CSX officials to carefully examine the conditions and any additional circumstances that may have been contributing factors. 

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has further information is asked by police to call 207-874-8575.

This is the thirteenth pedestrian killed in Maine in this year, and according to the State of Maine’s Maine Public Crash Query Tool, there have been 185 pedestrian crashes to date in 2024 in a variety of contexts. 

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The Bicycle Coalition of Maine works to make Maine a better and safer place to bike, walk, and roll. Founded in 1992, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine has grown into the leading bicycle and pedestrian advocacy group in the state. The Coalition believes all Mainers should have access to bikes and bike education, and we envision a future where Maine’s roads, public ways, and trails are safe and accessible, resulting in cleaner travel options, improved health, and stronger economic benefits for Maine communities.

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Bicycle Coalition of Maine