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Officials release Amtrak victim's name
By Pantagraph staff
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UPDATED 4:15 p.m. NORMAL -- Authorities have released the name of an Illinois State University student who died Wednesday after being struck by an Amtrak train in uptown Normal.

David Jordan Hirsch was a junior special education major from Hoffman Estates.

He died of multiple injuries, said McLean County Chief Deputy Coroner Barbara Nafziger. Toxicology tests have been ordered and an inquest will be held later.

Hirsch was struck about 2:30 p.m. at the University Street crossing. He was pronounced dead about 30 minutes later at BroMenn Regional Medical Center.

ISU officials have provided aid to Hirsch's roommates and counseling is available to other students.

"As we grieve the loss of a member of the Illinois State family, please remember your safety and the safety of others," university President Al Bowman said in a prepared statement. He asked staff and students to obey traffic laws and be watchful of their surroundings, noting the campus is in the middle of a high-traffic train, bus and automobile corridor.

The train was slowing for a stop at the Normal station a few blocks away.

A mother whose son has been friends with Hirsch since junior high described Hirsch as “sweet caring and funny. He’s a kid to me — he grew up with my kid.”

Debbie Kaminsky, Hoffman Estates, said, her son, Nick, and Hirsch, who are juniors, have roomed together since college began.

The two young men were active in theater in high school, and Hirsch was always supportive of others, complimenting their work, she said.

“He was genuinely happy about successes everybody else had,” Debbie Kaminsky said. “David’s just always been around. It’s just heartbreaking. No family should have to go through this.”

She said her son and his friends were coping with a “very strong support system” of phone calls and e-mails.

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Amtrak train conductor is interviewed after a pedestrian was hit Wednesday (Oct. 24, 2007) at University and Beaufort Streets in Normal. (Pantagraph/CARLOS T. MIRANDA)
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Reader comments on this story - 209 total

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

cohen wrote on Nov 21, 2007 5:33 PM:

" David was the kindest person a parent could ask for. He was the best camp conselour and will never be forgotten. Camp will never be the same without David. David always made my day more enjoyable and he brightens up my day. This accident happened to one of the caring kid ever. My thoughts are with his family. I know he lived the best life that he could. "

What wrote on Nov 7, 2007 3:07 PM:

" There must be more "

Stinko wrote on Nov 5, 2007 6:29 AM:

" Enough is enough is enough... "

Lindzi wrote on Nov 5, 2007 12:48 AM:

" Rest in peace David. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. "

railroader wrote on Nov 4, 2007 11:34 PM:

" An interesting forum, although I don't think anyone intentionally insulted the victim. But to me, with over a decade on working in railroads the one good thing that can come from this is if everyone learns (and teaches) YOU MUST LOOK BOTH WAYS FOR A TRAIN BEFORE CROSSING TRACKS. If you depend on sound you will eventually have a close call, or become a victim. It seems strange, but railroads can be quite quiet when you're not expecting them. I say this from experience, I hope some people can learn from it. "

ISU Alum wrote on Nov 3, 2007 3:37 PM:

" Thoughts and prayers go out to his family. "

to truth squad wrote on Nov 2, 2007 10:59 PM:

" it is most likely that the Amtrak spokesman is using the phrases they are using because in todays world, they have to keep to legalese because of the lawsuit the the family will most likely be filing. They have to get the facts out, such as if the lights, and warning devices were working (if there were any at the location) and if the person was crossing at a location other than a designated crossing location. Feelings have no place in a world where even the slightest remorse of a death or compassion can be used by some lawyer to sue for millions. "

To: David's Grandmother & Family wrote on Nov 1, 2007 5:19 PM:

" Please accept my sympathies as you endure pain and anguish as I'm sure you never thought you would. Please stop reading this article and these comments. Understand that there are hundreds, maybe thousands, of people thinking of you and of David. The people here who choose to use this forum to tear down and rip apart any portion of this sad situation, only have the express desire of seeing their words "in print." You need none of that. God be with you.... "

To granny wrote on Nov 1, 2007 1:18 PM:

" got enough commas? "

I understand... wrote on Nov 1, 2007 10:56 AM:

" To the Family, my heart goes out to all of you. I know what you are going through, my mom was killed in a car accident in February this year. There was no chance to say goodbye, just a phone call that you can't forget telling you that someone you loved was gone. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Only time will ease the pain. You will never forget,but you will find comfort. "

grandma wrote on Nov 1, 2007 12:19 AM:

" I am Davids grandmother,,,,,to all of you who gave us your sympathy ,I thank you from the bottom of my heart,,,and to all of you who wrote bad coments about my grandson,I will pray for you,because the pain you have given me,will surly follow you. "

Anonymity&Respect..right wrote on Oct 30, 2007 4:41 PM:

" With anonymity comes peoples real feelings. I wasn't encouraging rude behavior, just stating fact. You want compassion? You're as likely to find it on the bathroom wall. If you have any experience with these blogs you should know better. I sincerely hope this kids family hasn't come to this board. Many funeral homes now have areas to leave online sympathies, this would be much more appropriate. "

kym wrote on Oct 30, 2007 3:10 PM:

" I was traveling on the train that day about to get off at the station with my friends. we were going on a trip to indiana for National convention. My prayers go out to this youngmans family and friends. I will never forget what i seen that day and this has changed our lives forever. Lots of love from the Augusta, Arkansas F.F.A. God Rest Your Soul! "

to:Give me a break... wrote on Oct 29, 2007 2:08 PM:

" Anonimity SHOULD not excuse people from common morality and simple compassion. Your comments encouraging this type of behavior most boils my blood. I suppose that gives you some sort of satisfaction. "

I have been there too wrote on Oct 29, 2007 12:43 PM:

" My son died in a train accident in 1994. Similar to this one. My heart breaks for the family and brings up many sad memories. But irregardless of if it was an accident or your definition of an accident or if he was daydreaming, listening to music or just absorbed in thoughts, he is gone and his parents and family and friends will forever mourn his loss, while you, who did not know him, will forget as soon as another sensational story comes along. Cut those of us who grieve, some slack, allow us to do it and stop trying to figure it out. Only God knows why this happened and He is not talking. No amount of conjecture will figure it out. I know, I about drove myself crazy for 3 years going over and over the "why". there is not answer. A mistake, maybe, an intention, probably not, but the end result is the same. A whole in the life of a parent and a piece of a puzzle that will never be complete. "

To: Yanqui wrote on Oct 28, 2007 10:26 PM:

" Sounds to me like you are describing your very own posting. Attacking others who do not share the perceived need for flowery public protestations of something less-than-sincere sympathy is not going to raise the standards of the discussion. This incident was not rare or uncommon. It mirrors all too many cases of senseless maiming and death involving the rails. Using each and every such case as the excuse for a mutual sob-session does absolutely nothing to prevent the same from happening again and again. We must discuss all possible aspects of the problem in order to form any idea of a workable solution. "

Yanqui wrote on Oct 28, 2007 9:18 PM:

" Let my describe the individuals posting disparaging comments: Their only link to this community is through the internet (sad) and this sole mechanism is used to distribute the misery that is their lives. These people have never lifted a hand to help another, yet are the first and loudest to screem for help at the least inconvenience, let alone genuine hardship. They can find fault in others in an instant, and will never admit their own. They are overweight, have bad teeth, are always difficult to work with, and often have trouble paying their bills. They hold jobs (if employable) at low pay and high stress which feeds their poisonous personalities. In short, these people should be dismissed or ignored because they will always actively search for a stance that provides them with a sense of superiority. It will always be about them, and never others. "

You helped me. wrote on Oct 27, 2007 4:06 PM:

" To 'O': David would have loved your comment-" Its the darn Bush administrations fault..if we were not in Iraq we could have had the National Guard protecting people from trains. " That is a hillarious thing to say, because it makes absolutely NO sense! He was a hillarious kid. (I know he was 20, but still just a kid!) I also want to say thank you to 'eye-witness', you gave an elloquent account of what occurred and it IS helping me to cope and understand that this will NEVER make sense, but your account is the closest thing to 'knowing what really happened'. I knew David well. I know this thing you witnessed will never leave you and I hope that knowing you helped at least one person (likely many more) by sharing your story will give YOU some comfort. "

I agree w/ "Michael Schumann wrote on Oct 26, 2007 5:18 AM:" wrote on Oct 27, 2007 3:36 PM:

" And his point is quite well-written. Definitely this event calls for sympathy and kind understanding- but there are other forums for, and methods encouraging that. This particular venue is a place to explore the article and the news it contains. Logically folks are gonna weigh all considerations and bounce ideas back and forth between one another. Sure, it might seem cold to some- but if you log-onto the other forums meant for kinder memorializations, you'll likely find most of the same posters here expressing their kind sympathies there. Here? We're simply weighing, considering and debating the facts and possibilities as interested community-members... What would REALLY be cold and insensitive is if there were no interest at all. "

Deepest Sympathy wrote on Oct 27, 2007 12:20 PM:

" I want to give your family my deepest condolences for this awful tragedy. When I was a senior at NCHS, my best friend's cousin was killed by an Amtrak near Six Points Road. Although I did not know him personally, I saw (and felt) the devastation the family and friends went through. I pray you all will find peace in your hearts. RIP, David. "

wow wrote on Oct 27, 2007 10:44 AM:

" no matter what the story or where the town is these comments never cease to bring out the most ignorant statements I have ever read. Did you people that are arguing know this young man? No? Then move on with your lives and let his family mourn him. Drinking curfew? I think he was hit in the middle of the afternoon, and noone said he was drinking. Who cares if there is fault or not, and who cares why? Someone died thats it, no need for argument. Noone is saying BN is a "bad" place to be because of it. To the cruel people on here I hope you never have kids, or nothing ever happens to anyone you love. "

To Embarrassed wrote on Oct 27, 2007 7:15 AM:

" I agree with you completely and some people just dont have a heart. My prayers go out to this young man's family. "

to: Embarrassed wrote on Oct 26, 2007 11:06 PM:

" Get off your high horse. That is exactly what forums like this are for. Are you never read any comments online? This is pretty tame compared to most of them. If they bother you, stop reading them. "

To Embarassed wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:07 PM:

" It because too many people post on here to get a rise out of others. If it is going to bother you, don't read the comments. "

Embarrassed wrote on Oct 26, 2007 7:57 PM:

" I am a recent graduate of ISU and am saddened to hear of the passing of a fellow student. However, I cannot express how embarrassed I am to read the comments posted below. How is it that a supposedly educated community cannot find the decency to use an alternate forum for a debate such as this? A young man has tragically lost his life, and no one here has been granted the right to judge him, regardless of the situation. If you feel that you indeed have the right to criticize, please find a more private and appropriate method of doing so (blog/non-for-profit organization) where his grieving family and friends will not have to sort through your selfish and immature rantings in order to read the comments that may help them through this tragedy. Have some respect. "

My heart goes out not only wrote on Oct 26, 2007 6:27 PM:

" to this boy's loved ones but also to all the rescue workers, the train crew & passengers, and the witnesses who saw the whole traumatic event. I imagine the sight of that is something that remains with you forever, and I pray for relief and peace for you all. And nothing but gratitude to those involved in helping. "

exRailroader wrote on Oct 26, 2007 4:12 PM:

" Yes it is tragic not only for the family and friends of the student but also for the train crew. I speak from experience as having been involved in accidents with 13 fatal injuries. I my 36 year railroad career I know how these "incidents" tear apart the engineers and conductors. After one incident I had to work on a yard job (with a 40% pay reduction) for over a year to clear my mind from the scene of the carnage the happened as I was doing everything I could to stop my train. Yes David will be remembered by his loved ones forever but also by others that had only experienced this tragic moment from a locomotive. I still have nightmares about my first and every subsquent fatal collision, be pedestrian, truck or car. "

The Family is reading this wrote on Oct 26, 2007 3:44 PM:

" People of Bloomington/Normal as someone who has lived in this community my whole life I am sickened by most of the posts on here. You need to stop and think before you post! David's family is coming on line and read this story. Be more productive and leave a nice though or prayer for the family on this story, "Few answers as ISU, friends mourn student killed by train." I can't imagine the pain and heartbreak his family felt when they got the phone call that their BABY BOY had died this way. As a 2006 Alumni I just want to say " I did not know David. But it sounds like the world lost a young man that was full of promise, and that he had hopes of doing wonderful things for others in his life. I crossed those tracks many times to go to classes up until my May 2006 graduation, I'm so sad this happened. David, I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers during this time of grieving. " "

be wise wrote on Oct 26, 2007 3:32 PM:

" You are all ridiculous speculating and making up stories and pretending to have knowledge and experience about this event and how accidents happen and who is at fault. And those who have passed judgement are the most riduculous. You think you are wise and that your opinion is worth anything. It is worth nothing more than black letters on a white page. You want to be heard? You want to do something intelligent, thoughtful, helpful and constructive? Support the Hirsch family however you can. Send them prayers, send them letters of support, send them food or drink so that they may mourn the loss of their son without needing to care about their everyday personal needs. If you want to make a difference, act. "

JTE wrote on Oct 26, 2007 2:24 PM:

" Did he deserve to die? Well, there's two ways to look at it. He was seemingly a really great guy who had the potential to continue being a positive contribution to the world. So, now he didn't deserve to die. Did he make a stupid choice (by either chance or design) that put him in a situation that would reasonably lead to death? In that case yeah, he did deserve to die. The point is that even NOT being intentional, it's still the result of a series of choices he made, choices he had the ability to make otherwise than he did... I don't think it's insensitive for people to point out that actions have consequences, sometimes undeservedly tragic consequences. But ignoring the possibility of consequences only encourages others to make the same mistakes. "

Jables wrote on Oct 26, 2007 9:58 AM:

" I look at this message board and i cant help but feel disgusted at 70 percent of these comments. Instead of everybody arguing and bickering about who did what and what could have or should have been done. Howabout we try and just shut up for a second and realizle that a man has died. It kills me to even be joining you people in your rants, because lets face it, this is a rant...to most everyone else. I attended school with David, was in a few theatrical productions with him and I can proudly say that David was one of the funniest, most caring people i have ever met. Rest in Peace David "

TO: Micheal Schuman wrote on Oct 26, 2007 7:56 AM:

" Yes David made a bad choice, did he deserve to DIE for that choice? I think not. Next time you make a bad choice I hope it doesnt cost you your life. "

Be considerate wrote on Oct 26, 2007 7:52 AM:

" Keep in mind that you might not understand the pain the eyewitnesses are going through either. Obviously noone was wishing this upon anyone. It all happened so fast, and the eyewitnesses did everything they could to help, including calling emergency help immediately. No matter who was involved in this accident, friends, family, witnesses - there is pain for all. My prayers go out to everyone that has had to deal with this situation. It is so hard for everyone...so please do not point fingers. Just think about the fact that a life is gone - no time to point fingers. So sad. "

Michael Schumann wrote on Oct 26, 2007 5:18 AM:

" Wrong, Wrong Wrong. This was an article of news. As such, the matter calls for a discussion of the event. This space is NOT dedicated to memorials, they belong in another part of the paper. It is beyond foolish to argue, as many on here have tried to, that no fault or blame should be found. You want warm and fuzzy, fine. It is not proper, however, to gloss over the unpleasant facts. There is a question of responsible personal behavior - something that we very much need and want all of our other young people to learn. Ignore the lesson here and this sort of thing will surely happen again. "

Give me a break... wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:15 AM:

" I can't believe how serious some take comments on an anonymous public blog...if you're looking for sensitivity, look elsewhere....however if you're looking for something to get your blood pressure up, you've come to the right place my friend! "

You will be missed wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:47 PM:

" David was a truly wonderful young man! He was always thoughtful, respectful, polite, & joy to be around. He was an amazing person with such a bright future ahead of him. He touched the hearts of so many people & will be greatly missed by all of them! I was lucky enough to have been able to call David a friend & a co-worker. My heart goes out to his wonderful family. I can only imagine what they are going through. David- you will always have a special place in my heart!!!! "

Susie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:10 PM:

" I am so sorry to the family of this sweet beautiful child we have lost. Please everyone, step back and realize he had stuff on his mind, tresspass or not, it does not matter. This is a raggegdy!! for everyone. Open up your hearts and give some respect to the beatuiful soul we have lost and his family. Shame on everyone who blames anyone. No one is to blame.. We all have our destiny "

Continued: wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:53 PM:

" However, I respectfully request you think before attacking me again. In no way, shape or form did I ever attempt to do anything, but try and help this man's loved ones have a better understanding of what happened. I am deeply saddened for your loss. Additionally, words can't describe how terrible I feel for this young man's family. I also hurt for this man and his family. A pain I have never felt before, a deep pain I can't describe. I now have an attachment to this wonderful young man that I can't describe. I can't possibly imagine what his family is going through. My deepest thoughts and prayers are with all of you. "

to "Response to Eyewitness" wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:52 PM:

" Normally, I would not honor such a statement. Your analogy of this event being a bar fight and what my capacity was to stop this tragic event, is feeble at best. You have know idea what happened yesterday!!!Furthermore, you have no idea what my reaction was the instant I knew this was going to happen. You should be ashamed of yourself for thinking "I stood by and watched this man die." You were not there. As stated previously, I typically do not post on message boards. However, the only reason I posted the FACTS of what happened is so his loved ones could have a better understanding of this terrible tragedy. Moreover, I know how speculation and misinformation can create problems on this message board. My intentions were not to discuss me or what I did or what I have to live with for the rest of my life. Doing so would obviously be selfish and immature. Certainly, I understand your current emotional state and forgive your prejudgement. CONT....... "

Passenger on the train wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:47 PM:

" The train stopped suddenly before reaching the station and the conductor came charging through our car (the first after the locomotive) , obviously very distraught."We've just hit someone." I stood looking down at the young man's body, hoping that I was wrong but quite certain that he must have been fatally hurt. It seemed forever until help arrived. I could only pray for him and his family...those of us on the train were devastated. If this is consolation to anyone, we were not curious bystanders, we were parents witnessing a terrible event, and with deep empathy grieving the loss of another parent's child I'm certain I was not the only one to pray for this young man and his family. ...and also for the people operating the train at the time of the collision. Later, I offered condolences to the conductor who was clearly very upset. He did say that this has happend many times before in his career and it is always deeply upsetting. The sadness of it is still with me today and I will continue to pray for God's comfort for family. "

in the light... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:46 PM:

" trevor from tubring was on the train! "

Michael Schumann wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:31 PM:

" OK, Nancy. With my name right on top - STAY OFF THE TRAIN TRACKS! You will almost certainly NEVER get hit by a train if you STOP. LOOK. LISTEN. This simple lesson has been around for generations now. I may well understand that friends and loved ones have sustained a loss. I still need not excuse a bad choice or foolish behavior. "

To: Paladin wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:23 PM:

" You are dead wrong. AMTRAK HAS to stress the legal aspect. It is NOT a train's fault if you make the extremely foolish choice to stand in its path. Bad choices can kill you. A train cannot serve to avoid an accident. A train cannot "Stop on a dime". Simple common sense is not working in these cases. It has not been a month since another man was hit by an Amtrak train here in B-N. Nobody but nobody alive today has never heard of a train killing or injuring somebody who tried to beat a moving train. "

a home town friend wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:47 PM:

" None of u on here have any right to be talking the way you are If u had a heart u would be on here telling the family how badly u feel. Its people like u who have nothing better to do then sit on a computer and make stupied comments towards someone who life was taken before they were done with this world before he had time to finish teaching us. I went to school with dh it's funny because i remember being in band with him in 7th and how sweet he was how good he was in drama class for those of u who didn't know him im sorry he was a great person and for his family I'am so sorry for the pain u have to endure now for the hoildays and birthdays that he will miss for the mothers day and fathers day he wont be able to come home for. It's u who we should have in mind because if this happend to any of u on here i dont think you would be able to handle it. grow up find a hobby and let this man and his family have thier peace. "

DH wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:29 PM:

" Please stop commenting on the situation and what could have or should have been done differently. A young life is gone and pieces of everyone who knew him or broken forever. David was a caring wonderful person, and I was only around him for a short time and am deeply saddend by this event. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends right now and I am praying for those who could leave such insencere comments in this time of mourning, he had such a life ahead of him and it was taken far too soon. He will always be remembered for the compasionate unique person he was, we all miss you! "

??? wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:29 PM:

" i live over off northbrook dr which is close I55 and i can the train whistle any time there is a train.. so how in the heck did this kid not hear it when it that close to him.. it doesn't matter if you have headphones on or not your still going to hear the whistle from the train... "

Paladin wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:37 PM:

" ...on behalf of all us goyim, thanks alot... "

moshe wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:52 PM:

" David Hirsch was a special and chosen man. A light unto the nations. He was going to be a talk show host and remake what's wrong in this world. tikkum olam a gift unto the goyim. "

I think wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:50 PM:

" He must of been deep in thought or something not to hear the train coming .I live in north normal and it seems like anytime the trains are anywhere near downtown normal they seem to never let up on that blasted horn.It is sad . My heart and prayers go out to his family and friends. "

Paladin wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:48 PM:

" ...bad PR for Amtrak. Whatever your legal or logical response could be, it is a poorly thought out response to an incident that will have powerful emotive response to invoke strictly legal terminology. Call it a "tragedy", leave out the "trespasser" remarks. That is basic common sense. I walk across those tracks almost every day. I can't imagine how loud my sound system would have to be to make me miss the sound of a train approaching, or to miss the rumble it sends through the ground. Is the family (or, are friends) reading these posts? I hope they have better sense. If not, then they will likely read some things they won't like to hear. They should just type themselves an email that reads, "I pray for the family", and read it more than 155 times, if that is what they want to read. Of course, they can read that on 99% of the stories this paper prints... "

reader wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:45 PM:

" My prayers and sympathy to the family.He sounded like a good kid,and I'm sure he will be greatly missed and would of made valuable contributions to society in the educational field chosen. "

Re: response to eye witness wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:43 PM:

" Let us take a trip down logic lane. I see a person walking toward train tracks. There is a train coming, I assume the person will stop. The person isn’t stopping. I could yell out. Let’s remember though, there is a loud train coming. If this person cannot hear the train what makes you think they would hear the person yelling? But, let’s try this. Maybe a person could have gotten out of their car to stop him. Alright, but what is the basis on which we decide they are too close for comfort and when we should step in? 1ft, 2ft, 5ft? If we say 2ft, do you really think there would be enough time to exit your car and save them? Probably not. And if we decide a longer distance, how useful would it be if we all jump out of our car when someone is walking within 5ft of a train? We might as well hold hands. Your illogical supposition that someone should have prevented this is utterly ridiculous. "

yeah chub, wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:27 PM:

" you got some sense! "

Normal res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:17 PM:

" Why doesn't everyone let the Coroner's Office and Police investigate it and quit making negative comments. They will let us know when it's figured out. they usually do. to the family and friends my sympathy to you. None of us could imagine what you're going through! "

Nancie Eagan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:59 PM:

" To those who are alive and still breathing: This is not just a news story open for readers to judge or speculate. Shame on those of you who want to offer up all sorts of venomous, snide, and insensitive comments. Awfully brave- esp. since you didn't sign your names and take responsibiltiy for your opinions. Perhaps you should think about what is decent and kind before you type. This is a tragedy. Our community needs to be aware of how our words will affect this young man's friends and loved ones. Deepest sympathies to all who mourn the loss of this precious person. I am truly sorry for your loss. "

At that same intersection wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:43 PM:

" I recently saw a car almost hit a student, and the student was clearly not at fault! The driver spaced out! It happens....I forgot to turn on my turn signal at a busy 4 way stop this morning.....I spaced out...it happens! We all need to slow down. Get rid of the ear buds/head phones at least in traffic....and STUDENTS we luv ya, but ya gotta stop walking out in front of vehicles expecting drivers to stop especially on College Ave. "

SADDD! wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:37 PM:

" tragendy, tradgedy, tresspasser, ttresspasser, spit second, most diffult time, I would always see students runing across them. There definatly needs to be another way, insensative, we are lost. "

hey chubbyalaskgrizz wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:23 PM:

" man- you hit the nail right on the head. are you a paster or a funerel director or a grief counseler os some such? you got a lot of sense. "

RE: "a reader wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:00 PM:" wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:20 PM:

" sure... all the time. but what's your point? when I do that- it's MY fault- caused by MY actions! can't blame it on the builder of the room, the designer of the floor, the composer of the music that had me distracted or the "powers that be" for providing the distracting, lovely view out the window that I was focusing my attention on. It was no accident- it was MY fault. "

response to eye witness wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:16 PM:

" if you were in the car watching david walk across the tracks... WHY DIDNT YOU STOP HIM? is it really that hard to roll down your window? i'm sorry that was a little insensitive.. but i just hate it when people stand by and watch... i make sure i stop fights even if they are just joking because you never know... and even if you thought david was going to stop.. you should have said hey look out! or honked at him or got out of your car... thats what i would have done... i wouldn't have just watched the scene and have to live with that forever. i love you dh, and you will always be in my memory. you made my theater experience a blast, the memories of jewish retreats will last forever, and your freshman year college stories will never fade away! i love the hirsch family. they need your prayers, and they have mine. may peace be with you david. "

Family wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:08 PM:

" Please help me to cope with the death of David, He was a great person, reading here that people are mad at him or think he is a tresspasser is horible, please be respectful a great person was lost, a man of the future is gone, respect please, and Mr. PR guy, I am astonished that you could say something like that, at least be respectful. "

so sad. wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:08 PM:

" my thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this terrible event. "

dani cohen wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:00 PM:

" David was my favorite camp counselor @ OSRUI!!!!! he was always in a good mood and cared about people. my thoughts are with his family. "

family friend wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:45 PM:

" My dad is best friends with DH's dad... do you have any idea what this has done to his family... Some of you are making these absolutely horrible comments about this tragendy when you have no idea what you are talking about Think about what his family is feeling then rethink what you wrote... some of these comments are just disgusting "

let's be logical and understanding wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:42 PM:

" No one expects something like this to occur, and it is truly unfortunate. For those who knew him and have posted comments about him, he sounded like a person of potential and it is sorrowful to lose someone like that…I am very sorry for your loss. I would like to point out that it is impossible to say for certain what happened. It is insensitive to point fingers at suicide, yet equally insensitive to label this an “accident.” Nobody knows the truth except him, and we will never hear his testimony. However, both reasons are erroneous, as a human life was lost and that is the most important fact to keep in mind. Finally, let us rid ourselves of this trespasser nonsense. Technically speaking, if he was not at a crosswalk, then he WAS trespassing on Amtrack property. This face is true for every single person who crosses the tracks in this way. However, the incident that occurred has nothing to do with trespassing or not, and it is pointless to bicker and argue in circles because it does not matter in the end. "

A concerned county resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:29 PM:

" My reading of this newspaper called The Pantagraph is over. Shame on you PANTAGRAPH for allowing this blog to exist. What will it take to stop these senseless comments? Very sad - beyond words for the family and friends of this wonderful young man. God Bless you! "

a reader wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:00 PM:

" Have you ever walked from one room to another and thought about the walk and realized you zoned out....happens people.....no drugs, no fault , just happens....to much on your mind and your just busy thinking.....my sympathy to his family.... "

The Amount wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:53 PM:

" of ignorance and complete lack of respect in this community just astounds me. I'm ashamed to be a part of it. "

chubbyalaskagriz wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:31 PM:

" A wonderful lesson in all that makes up the mourning process. We all have different coping mechanisms. Some immediatley pity and empathize. Some immediately attempt to trace cause through logic. Some curse the "powers that be" for allowing tragedy to occur. Folks seem to be attacking one another for supposed cold insensitivty, but honestly, as I read thru these posts, I don't read a single cruel remark. Sometimes as readers- we are obligated to work harder and look deeper... Rather, I see a tiny chunk of several diverse lives- folks trying in their own way to make sense of such an unfortunate event. Not a cruel thing in the world about that.. At current count there are 133 posts. And I say they are 133 fantastic examples of folks trying to sort out an awful and at least partly illogical tragedy. Stop accusing one another and focus more on the life lost and those close to him trying to get through it. Lord- some of you seem the type of folks who spaz-out and get all goofy at funerals by beating the hell out of the pastor delivering the service- or the florist arranging the wreaths... "

D wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:26 PM:

" To all of you who are saying mean things (many of you) you make me sick. DH was an awesome person and didn't deserve this. what if it happened to a friend/family member of your? Im sure you would feel differently. Just because he was an ISU student doesn't mean he was heartless, self absorbed, and had no manners. In fact, he was the exact opposite. I hope you feel horrible about what you said. "

Neighbor wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:21 PM:

" Please keep all comments that do pertain to your grievance or memoirs of David away from this article. David was a wonderful young man whose intelligence excelled past many others. He will forever be remembered as someone with charm, charisma, a wonderful heart, as well as one of the most giving people I have ever met. He will truly be missed. My heart goes out to his family and close friends. May you rest in peace David. We love you and miss you. "

RE: "Just reading comments.... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:14 AM:" wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:08 PM:

" Folks here are simply trying to sort out what could have happened- how a seemingly healthy, "normal" person could have met such a tragic and untimely demise. All possibilities are being explored. We're not accustomed to someone having this violence occur to end their life. Folks are searching for SOME answer. Considering the possibility of some impairing disability is a perfectly normal consideration. "

RE: "Definition of Accident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:14 AM:" wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:05 PM:

" Your final sentence expressing a personal opinion, completely contradicts the definition you post in the sentence before. "

RE: "Here's an accident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:03 AM:" wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:59 PM:

" In today's society where people wish to always blame some entity other than themselves- many would agree with your idea of neither pedestrian being to blame. Yet a court of law- a judge thinking logically, would likely conclude that BOTH walkers shared blame. Afterall, people carefully paying attention and walking in an alert manner using methods suited to the weather, amount of lightness, and all other conditions DO NOT walk into one another and step on one another's toes and break them. Those who commonly refuse to accept their own personal responsibility will not agree. Those who think logically and who are accustomed to acceptiong their own personal accountability will have no problem seeing this CLEARLY. "

GGerson wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:50 PM:

" This just so unbelievably sad. David was a good friend to many including my daughter. He was a wonderfully giving person. He will be missed by many. The news brought tears to my eyes for the loss of such a promising, hard-working young man and the devasting blow to his loving parents and his sister. My thoughts and prayers are with them. "

Terrible that this happened wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:48 PM:

" I do notice when driving in Normal that the students don't care about walking in front of cars all the time. "

O wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:40 PM:

" Its the darn Bush administrations fault..if we were not in Iraq we could have had the National Guard protecting people from trains. "

dwarf wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:35 PM:

" I'm sure the "trespasser" comment was more of a C.Y.A. action than anything else. Amtrak's circling the wagons and making sure everyone knows that (1) their systems worked as required by law, (2) they did nothing to contribute to this beyond their operation, and (3) the student was somewhere he had no right to be (hence "trespasser." It's heartless, sure, but Amtrak really doesn't want to get sued over this. Ambiguous statements would only weaken their position. "

Kash wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:28 PM:

" It's over. He's gone. He left this world with a smile on his face. RIP "

mourning wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:18 PM:

" to Here's an accident's post: that is cruel. even if he was not paying attention or whatever, the young man is now dead, there is no need to say things like that, that if he had been smarter or less like our generation or whatever, that he wouldn't have died. and do not put the word accident in quotations, that implies that it wasn't an accident, and it was. that's just..wow, that's cruel "

Think before you post wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:07 PM:

" How dare all of you who are judging this man and his actions! Who are you to judge? What is the point of posting on here to criticize and point fingers? Just to see your comment on the Internet? Please step back and think about someone beside yourself. A young man's life has ended much too early, and that is a tragedy. It is a very sad day when family and friends feel they should defend a loved one after they have passed, let alone 24 hours after the loss. DH was a good person, and he touched so many lives. God bless him, his family and his friends. My prayers are with you all. "

Sad But True wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:54 PM:

" I-POD must have been the result of this death! "

John wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:51 PM:

" I knew this man from the time he was a boy as our families have known each other through our Temple for many years. He was an exceptionally nice, compassionate person that leaves behind a wonderful family that will miss him tremendously as will we. The appropriate thing to do is not to chastise the event, but rather offer your prayers for the family. Remember, no one is immune to tragedy. These types of wounds need lots of care. Let's try to offer some compassion. "

I think wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:42 PM:

" "I think the Pantagraph should do a better job of screening comments. I could not imagine if this was my son and had to read some of the comments. Even though they say these comments are not the opinions of the Pantagraph, I wish people could hold them accountable. Some comments are very hurtful. A young man died and the Pantagraph gives such idiots a platform to voice their sick opinions. I just don't believe they have a good staff screening these comments. To the people who feel the same way I do, we got to keep on the Pantagraph." "

Is it . . . wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:37 PM:

" a tradgedy? Sure. Was it preventable? Absolutely. What I don't get is that you can hear the train whistle for miles away. And yet - he gets hit. It's not like these trains plow through town at 90 miles an hour. Didn't anyone teach him to look both ways b4 crossing a street? (I'm sure someone did) He walked out in front of it. His fault - sad but true. "

To: Understand... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:23 PM:

" Ipods are pretty popular these days... Maybe he had headphone on?! "

TO: Here's an accident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:07 PM:

" Well if people used a common courtesy, ALWAYS MOVE TO THE RIGHT! Then this accident you speak of would not occur. I was taught to always go to the right. This avoids running into people. However this generation no longer teaches their children common courtesies. Point is always step to the right. If everyone stepped to the right or used the right "lane" or "aisle" etc, there would be no dancing and no running into each other, even when turning a corner while walking down a busy street; because only one would be walking close to the building, the other would be walking close to the curb. A long lost common courtesy and knowledge to avoid an "accident". "

egvpl wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:06 PM:

" This is a rule for posting a comment. Did anyone read it? You will not post anything libelous, defamatory, obscene, harmful, vulgar, threatening, harassing, abusive, invasive of another's privacy, hateful, racially or ethnically objectionable, or otherwise illegal. Some of the comments are inappropriate for family and freinds. "

JTE wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:39 PM:

" This is a tragedy to be sure. A young man seemignly full of potential for good is gone. Blaming or trying to second-guess who is responsible won't change those facts. But, it's very common on these sorts of blogs for people to say things like "It was an accident, they're not at fault". Thing is that it is an accident, but it was preventable. Like most traffic accidents. It's a railroad crossing, and someone stepped in front of a train with its light flashing and its horn blowing. At the same time the crossing gates were down and the warning lights at the intersection were flashing (and I presume the bells were ringing). The tragedy is compounded because was a PREVENTABLE accident. "

Tragedy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:26 PM:

" First, my thoughts and prayers are with this man's family, friends and loved ones. I know you are going thru a very sad time and I am so sorry. Second, everyone should stop and think of a time when they have had their mind on something and been so engrossed in their thoughts that they are completely oblivious to their surroundings. This could possibly have happened with this man. What I am trying to say is not to judge this man for his actions as I, and probably most everyone else, has done the same thing, only without these tragic results. Again, to his family and friends, you have my deepest sympathies. "

He is Gone, that is What is Really Important wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:13 PM:

" Get over the "Was it An Accident or Not". We do not need Webster's Definition of Accident. We need to think about the people involved in this and reach out to them. Pray for them, hope that they will find happiness someday. Pray or Hope that they are not blaming themselves for anything. David is Gone now and there is nothing we can do but respect what happened to him. He will be missed. "

To just reading the comments wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:08 PM:

" That was their point!!! When they commented on the possibility of a disability they were offering an explanation of how or why this could have happened. It just happens that a disability is not the case. "

Ask ISU Police wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:06 PM:

" and that complaint was also sent to the pantagraph and ISU's presidents office via email so lets post both submissions "

To these non-accident people\accident man: wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:47 PM:

" ac-ci-dent: an undesirable or unfortunate happening that occurs unintentionally and usually results in harm, injury, damage, or loss; casualty; mishap: automobile accidents: dictionary.com. SO what I want to know is... What's your point here? I think its easy to say that for every action there is a reaction (some kind of crazy scientific law /sarcasm). Therefore, there is truly no such thing as a accident. HOWEVER, we don't go about our lives thinking "because I decided to buy lamp at the store, driving home, and hit a pot hole, and was distracted as the lamp fell, I was hurt in a car wreck". No we call that an accident. It was something that occurred that was unintentional. Or was it the maker of the lamps fault? or that silly inventor guy that invent the light bulb (/sarcasm again)? get over yourself.. Thanks "

isustudent wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:46 PM:

" i used to cross those tracks to go to summer classes, however stopped after tripping there once, and ending up bleeding. i walk 3 minutes out of my way to cross (jaywalk) vernon. if i wanted to walk to a real cross walk, my options would be to walk 10 minutes to get to LINDEN, or 5 minutes to cross the tracks on the SIDEWALK that david was on. this is a terrible tragedy and i hope it is not overlooked by the school, or the town like so many other things are. i know they are expensive, but maybe put a stoplight somewhere in that area, with a crosswalk. i'm sure you would rather pay money for that than pay with another tragic loss. "

another fact wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:45 PM:

" the normal police do not and cannot hand out ticket for trespassing on Union Pacific property, UP has their own police that give tickets. the normal police would only be involved if UP were to press charges for any trespasser. "

understand: wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:38 PM:

" i think that people asked if he had a disability not to undermine his character but possibly wondering if he had a hearing issue or something that would help us all to understand this terrible tragedy. "

LIfe wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:26 PM:

" THey need to put a facen in town around the exposed track or make a drinking curfew "

Another Normal Neighbor wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:22 PM:

" An unfortunate irony to this is an expansion plan by and for Bromenn Hospital that calls for closing the south end of Franklin Ave., thereby forcing more traffic onto University St. An at grade railroad crossing located some 25 feet south of what will be an even busier intersection is another dangerous worry on students and residents. The Town of Normal, ISU need to really think about all aspects of this plan seriously, even though both have been in talks with Bromenn and support it. "

schmoo wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:20 PM:

" Did you get his name??? seems to be a lot of accidents near there, "

p wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:16 PM:

" Per the interstate commerce act of 1905, public thorofares crossing railroad rights of way are considered easements, and thus still Railroad Property. Per a Supreme Court decision in the 20's clarifying the act (and still in force today as a legal precedent) the pedestrian and motorist have a duty to "stop, look, and listen" before crossing any tracks. Anyone failing to do so, is by definition, a tresspasser. By the way: the Consolidated Code of Operating Rules the railroads use includes this stern warning "Movement of trains is to be expected at any time, in any direction on any track, with or without warning" "

to: amtrak response wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:51 AM:

" He was referred as a tresspasser because it sounds like he was. Anyone who does not cross at a sidewalk, street, or other paved crossing is tresspassing. The area between these legal crossings is property of the railroad company, therefore private property. Several individuals have been ticketed the past for using this area as a crossing. It's dangerous, uneven, and illegal. It sounds bad or unethical to call a victim of a bad accident a tresspasser, but it is also a fact of the case. "

Whether Accident or Otherwise wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:49 AM:

" The only real thing to come out of these posts is that a young man has died. I know the feeling of surreal when you are a family or friend of the victim. Quite frankly, at this moment, the people affected are not concerned with why - they just saw, talked to him a day or two ago or maybe just minutes before - and now he is gone. Nobody will ever know the real why, just educated guesses, which don't do anybody any good. We can all come up with an educated guess, it's just a matter of where and how you communicate it and this is not an appropriate place. My sincere condolences an prayers to all who knew and loved this young man. "

Accident are unvoidable in some caes wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:32 AM:

" It is very unfortunate this occurs so much now days but it is quite possible he was pre occupied talking on a cell phone now that we are in age of high tech ,I have seen numerous people attempting to turn corner while drivng and swerve to wide for fear of dropping phone. But accidents are some time avoidable but fate plays a big part not being or being in right place ,at the precise moment is out of our hands rather we truly wish to believe it , you will find meaning incident and t unexplainable occur and you have been spared a diseastrous occurs. Man shall never be able to know that answer until we make that journey ourselves and we all shall. My heartfelt prayers go to family who lost a son and friends who he may have brought a smile too. "

to neighbor and others wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:30 AM:

" This is directed toward those who take offense at nearly everything that is said here and in response to other stories- where on this good earth would you move to get away from occasionally "cruel" and "insensitive" people? B-N doesn't have a monopoly on such residents. Almost everyone has thought or said things that would appear to be insensitive to somebody. There is such a thing as tact, of course, and society in general seems to be getting out of control in that area (aided quite a bit by anonymous on-line commenting). But please quit judging B-N as though this community is the final resting place for jerks. "

Another Normal Neighbor wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:24 AM:

" " My thoughts and prayers go out to the young man's family and friends. " I live a few blocks away from where this tragedy occured, and I heard the ambulance pass in front of my home yesterday afternoon. I honestly thought it was probably a senior citizen - a usual trip to Bromen. I've waited at the Normal Amtrak Station a number of times this year waiting for the southbound amtrak train from Chicago. While standing at the platform and watching the train come closer, I have seen the crossing lights do weird things at Linden and also at the College Avenue crossings. I also have seen cars darting across the tracks at College and students crossing Linden after the lights begin flashing. All crossings in Normal are dangerous and that includes the C. Trail, BE Careful. "

Please... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:18 AM:

" Please try to understand the pain so many of us our going to. Please try to grasp how awful and surreal it is to get a call saying this wonderful person is gone from you life forever. Please try to understand how many of us are trying to come to grips with this situation and failing. We can go in circles arguing whether or not he is a "victim" or a "tresspasser," but right now all I can feel is an emptiness inside myself, and a desperate need for everyone to understand how hurtful you are being right now. I am in pain. A lot of people are. And now is not the time to say the train won. "

Just reading comments.... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:14 AM:

" to the first post "neighbor to the tracks" what does it matter if this person had a disability or not? Once again people trying to put a label...an individual was struck by a train...how and why that happend should be the focus! "

Definition of Accident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:14 AM:

" Here is the definition of accident from Merriam-Webster "an unfortunate event resulting especially from carelessness or ignorance". The term accident does not indicate fault. Rather, it indicates that it was not a purposeful action. "

amtrak reponse wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:04 AM:

" Why does this spokesman from Amtrak refer to this man as a tresspasser? This is very crass, that man should be reprimanded! "

neighbor wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:01 AM:

" It amazes me how cold hearted people can be. I have read these posts and I would be enraged at how mean you people are. Heaven forbid something like this happens to your brother or someone you know. Stop pointing the finger and write condolences....not "how do you not see or hear the train coming?" If we cannot have sympathy for a young man who just lost his life and his family then I don't think we possess any decency. God bless his family and I hope this occurence brings them closer together. "

Sad Neighbor wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:01 AM:

" We should be commenting on how this young man impacted some of our lives, how he was a good friend or co worker and not how this tragedy could've happened, whether is was an accident or not. Let's remember this guy as he was, not how he died. "

Learn the definition wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:40 AM:

" Accident doesn't imply lack of fault. It means lack of intent. And in this case intent can only be guessed based upon the eyewitnesses and people who knew the young man. I would like to interpret that info as making this an accident until proven otherwise. Just because people use the term accident incorrectly to escape fault doesn't change the actual meaning of the word. "

Listening to his iPod? wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:29 AM:

" I can't tell you how many times I've seen close encounters with someone on campus almost getting hit by a car because they were listening to music too loud and not paying attention. "

Sad wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:21 AM:

" Some of these comments are truly inappropriate and insensative. Shame on you for pointing the finger. Shame on you for calling hime stupid. And shame on you if you assume to know what happened. You are NOT God. The only thing that can be said is that this is a tradgedy. He is a human being that lost his life. I didn't even know the kid, but I am quite shocked and disturbed by the rudeness of some people on this site. This was someone's son, friend, nephew, grandson, mentor, and the list goes on. My heart breaks for his friends and family. So please, I beg of you... have some compassion. "

Deepest Sympathy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:14 AM:

" I think the important thing to keep in mind is that this was obviously an accident. Amtrak is not at fault and the young man is not at fault. It doesn't seem that he intentionally walked in front of the train. Who knows why he didn't hear it. There could be several reasons. Right now, though, I think the important thing is that someone's friend, classmate, son, brother, etc.. has passed away at an incredibly young age and that is a tragedy. My prayers are with his family and friends. So sorry about your loss. "

I can't believe.... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:08 AM:

" that people are on here quibbling about what an accident means whens someone has died and his friends and family are suffering. I think that when people here are calling this an accident they are meaning that no one intentionally caused this death. The conductor didn't purposefully hit the student and the student didn't purposefully walk across the tracks (I am assuming). I'm sure if this was your friend or loved one, you would not be on here posting such comments. "

Please think before commenting wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:07 AM:

" I knew the victim personally and I am from his home town. There is no doubt in my mind it was an accident. He was not suicidal, and it is unfortunate that more caution was not taken. He was a smart individual who made a mistake. We are all guilty of mistakes. I kindly ask that you please keep the finger pointing to yourself and think of the friends and family that have to deal with this situation. It has not even been 24 hours and most of us are still in absolute shock. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers. He was a good friend and an excellent mentor. Do not judge him by this one mistake, please. "

To: I agree with accident man wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:06 AM:

" Not if you actually look up the word accident. I've copied and pasted the definition from my handy-dandy 2007-version Microsoft Word's Resource page: Accident - a collision or similar incident involving a moving vehicle, resulting in property damage, personal injury or death OR an unplanned and unfortunate event that results in damage, injury, or upset of some kind OR the way things happen without any planning, apparent cause, or deliberate intent. So, going by the definition of the word accident, it sounds like this tragedy was exactly that. My sympathies to this young man's family, friends, roommate, and schoolmates. "

Here's an accident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:03 AM:

" Two people turn a corner at the exact same time and bump into each other. Neither person was distracted or walking too quickly or doing anything that could be deemed careless. Just by coincidence they both ended up at the same place at the same time and collided before they could see each other. During this, one person's toe is stepped on and broken...if there are no accidents, who's to blame? "

To: Why can't people realize wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:03 AM:

" Well, if there is no such thing as an accident, one would think that a "normal" person such as yourself surely has been responsible for many horrific things - that is, if there is no such thing as an accident. So, knowing that, how do you sleep at night? "

I agree with Accident man... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:41 AM:

" ... The term "Accident" implies we are powerless to things that "just occur" like magic. No such things just occur. We do them to ourselves or someone does them to us. It's that simple. No car wreck that has ever occurred has happened by "accident". Fault is to blame in all situations. To resign yourself to the idea that car wrecks "just happen" defies all logic and is simply a cop-out to those who would rather not face their own culpibility. I have fallen on my ass on ice- MY fault every time. I have ran my car into a curb- MY fault everytime. I have fallen off of bleachers at a ballgame- MY fault. I was hit with a dart at a bar- SHARED FAULT- I wasn't watching where I was going- the thrower didn't watch where he was aiming. These things don't just (POOF!) "happen"! None are "accidents". "

to "to all" wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:16 AM:

" yes, he was walking on the sidewalk, and no, there was not a crossing gate blocking the sidewalk. I will give you another brief description of the accident scene. The incident happened at the intersection of Univeristy St. and the railroad tracks just south of Beaufort St. The railroad tracks travel southwest to northeast, parallel with Beaufort Street. University Street runs north and south and is one lane in each direction. the tracks cut across the sidewalk the young man was walking on to the northeast, as well as across University St. to the northeast. "

Mom of 3 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:10 AM:

" My sympathies go out to this man's family. My brother was killed by an Amtrak in 1994. Accidents do happen and I feel for this family. "

TO ALL ? wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:50 AM:

" did you not say he was crossing on the sidewalk? Are there in fact gates that cover the sidewalk? if not maybe he was just zoned out and didn't notice the stopped cars... and if there was not a gate blocking the sidewalk i dare say that in fact he was not a trespasser he was simply walking on the sidewalk. "

Accident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:05 AM:

" What about the times where a meteorite falls from the sky and destroys property(never heard of someone actually getting hit)? I would say that is an accident..... "

Dolores wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:49 AM:

" I knew this man, he went to school with my daughter. We will miss him terribly. For those of you with snide, insensitive comments, I pray you never make a mistake that costs you your life. "

let's be logical and understanding wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:44 AM:

" No one expects something like this to occur, and it is truly unfortunate. For those who knew him and have posted comments about him, he sounded like a person of potential and it is sorrowful to lose someone like that…I am very sorry for your loss. I would like to point out that it is impossible to say for certain what happened. It is insensitive to point fingers at suicide, yet equally insensitive to label this an “accident.” Nobody knows the truth except him, and we will never hear his testimony. However, both reasons are erroneous, as a human life was lost and that is the most important fact to keep in mind. Finally, let us rid ourselves of this trespasser nonsense. Technically speaking, if he was not at a crosswalk, then he WAS trespassing on Amtrack property. This face is true for every single person who crosses the tracks in this way. However, the incident that occurred has nothing to do with trespassing or not, and it is pointless to bicker and argue in circles because it does not matter in the end. "

Think wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:42 AM:

" If you cross the tracks when the signals are going or not at a crossing you are tresspassing. For an Amtrak official to refer to him as anything else such as "victim" will assist the lawyer who is going to sue Amtrak. "

To:Why cant people realize wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:15 AM:

" no such thing huh? so when you smash your thumb with a hammer is the hammer company conspiring against you? when you slip on some ice and fall, is it gods fault for lowering the temp? when you have a flat tire at interstate speeds and you slide off the road, was it goodyear that caused this? get a grip, accidents happen and sometimes people pass away from these accidents. lay off the CSI and conspiracy shows and take a walk in some fresh air... "

Terrible wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:04 AM:

" The Pantagraph should not even allow comments to be posted on articles where someone dies. If the posters on this site cannot have any respect for someone that loses their life, then they should not be allowed to post their garbage online. "

Aristotle wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:57 AM:

" "All human actions have one or more of these causes: nature, compulsion, habit, reason, passion, or desire." Aristotle (384 BC - 322 BC) (hmmm... maybe he's right- I don't see "accident" anywhere on the list!) "

Response to Big Man wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:44 AM:

" However insensitive the last remark made by Big Man was, his first statement about students walking out in front of people all the time is true. I think though they do it without even realizing it. They have SO much on their minds, school, finances, family, friends, and life in general. College is stressful and my heart goes out to this young mans' family and friends. My suggestion to people DRIVING in the area of ANY college campus, please be safe and alert for pedestrians and always obey the slower speed limits, they are their for a reason. "

Take action today ISU! wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:23 AM:

" I'm a student and I heard from someone who witnessed the accident. Please ISU, follow the crosswalks on the way to class this morning! Pay attention! Don't use mp3 players, or cell phones, while you're walking. I've learned my lesson and I'm going to stop using them both while I'm driving and while I'm walking. My prayers and thoughts go out to all family, friends, and people who witnessed the crash. "

He's Right wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:20 AM:

" Accident Dude is correct, ya’ll. Some of ya’s are perceiving him (or her) as mean or cruel- but if ya read what they share they’re actually pretty tender-hearted, if ya ask me. They’re just a logical-thinker, rather than an emotional one. Common sense, peeps! Poor guy died- and it’s a real shame- we’re all sorry about that- but he died BECAUSE of something. Accidents are things that happen without being caused, by people or events that did nothing to cause them. And there’s no such thing. Show me such an “accident” and I bet’cha I can find the cause. Stuff don’t just happen. Leave dude alone. He’s absolutely right. "

Out of respect... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:18 AM:

" for this young man and his family. I really think the Pantagraph should remove the ability to make any sort of comment on this story. "

wow wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:04 AM:

" I think the point being made by the "Tresspasser" comment is this. We are all lawbreakers. Some people speed, others do rolling stops, jay walk, etc. etc. So unless your going to call yourself out as a criminal let's not jump to a conclusion and call him a tresspasser because some government funded lacky called him that. "

Teacher wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:54 AM:

" David was truly a remarkable young man. He would have made a difference in the world, not just talked of it. He wanted to help those who needed it most. I miss him so much already, and my heart goes out to all of his friends and family members - David loved them all so much. "

Accident? wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:46 AM:

" A child walks into a door. A chef cuts his finger when chopping veggies. A mechanic drops a wrench on his toe. A carpenter hammers his thumb. A batter gets hit with a ball. These things could all be called an accident yet none are- because ALL have a cause. Carelessness, drowsiness, working too quickly, not watching closely enough, working in unsafe conditions... ALL things within control of the person who gets hurt, or the one inflicting the cause. ALL things manageable, correctable and avoidable. ALWAYS. There is no such thing as an accident. There is ALWAYS someone to BLAME. Everything has a CAUSE. Believing otherwise is only an attempt to shift the blame. It may seem cold- though it's not intended to be. It's just an effort to convey clear understanding. If ever you doubt this- go before a judge in a courtroom. It's the judge's job ALWAYS to find fault for the "accident". No trial ever completes without blame being decided. No such thing as an accident. "

RE: "to Why can't people realize wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:59 AM:" wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:35 AM:

" People use the word "accident" to imply no fault to self. To some the word clears them of all blame. In a sad time like this one does not like to speak ill of the dead and say HE was at fault, but truthfully, that poor soul isn't dead because YOU or I walked across those tracks. He has perished because HE walked across them. (just as it could happen to you or I) Again- unless he was pushed, tied down or otherwise done harm to by a 3rd party. Every action is CAUSED. Always. Folks use the word "accident" to shift the cause from themselves or others. It's a dis-service to displace blame. It cannot be disputed that there is no such thing as an "accident". Everything is caused. "

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