Authorities investigate death of 17-year-old hit by train in Brandon

A Brandon High School student who was struck by a freight train earlier this week has died from his injuries, authorities have confirmed.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said the 17-year-old was critically hurt when he was hit by a CSX train on Thursday morning and later died on Friday.

Deputies were called to the railroad tracks near Lakewood Drive in Brandon at about 8:23 a.m. after reports of a pedestrian being involved in a collision. First responders found the teenager in critical condition and rushed him to Tampa General Hospital for treatment.

Investigators believe the student had been walking along the tracks in the direction of Brandon High School when the train came up behind him. According to preliminary findings, the teen tried to move out of the way at the last moment but was unable to avoid being struck.

Authorities are examining several factors as part of the ongoing investigation. A pair of headphones was found near the tracks, prompting questions about whether the student could hear the approaching train.

Weather conditions at the time are also under scrutiny. Officials and witnesses reported heavy fog in the area, which may have significantly reduced visibility for both the pedestrian and the train crew.

The sheriff’s office said the investigation is continuing as deputies work to establish the full sequence of events that led to the fatal incident.

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