Teen e-bike rider killed after being struck by train in Simi Valley

A 13-year-old Simi Valley resident riding an e-bike died after being struck by a passing train at a railroad crossing, authorities confirmed Sunday.

Authorities said the incident occurred around 6:25 p.m. on Saturday at Sequoia Avenue and Los Angeles Avenue when the juvenile was riding a two-wheeled motorized device southbound on the east sidewalk of Sequoia Avenue, according to the Simi Valley Police Department.

Simi Valley police said the teenager was a student in the Simi Valley Unified School District.

“This is a heartbreaking loss for the Simi Valley community,” the department said in a statement, extending condolences to the victim’s family, friends and classmates.

Preliminary findings indicate the rider failed to stop in time at the crossing and was struck by the train. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures, but the juvenile died from injuries sustained in the crash, police said.

Authorities urged riders of bicycles, electric bicycles and other motorized devices to remain alert near roadways and railroad crossings, obey posted signals and ensure it is safe before crossing tracks.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Traffic Investigator Abel Martinez at AMartinez@simivalley.org or 805-583-6224, or Traffic Bureau Supervisor Sgt. Josh McAlister at JMcalister@simivalley.org or 805-583-6940.