Lakeland, FL (January 18, 2025) – A tragic accident occurred early Friday morning when a 72-year-old Lakeland woman was fatally struck by a train near Kathleen Rd. The incident prompted a response from multiple agencies and temporarily shut down traffic on Knights Station Rd.
Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) units were dispatched to the scene at approximately 7:31 AM following a report of a pedestrian struck by a train. Upon arrival at 7:41 AM, responders confirmed one fatality, later identified as Rosa Guerra, a 72-year-old Lakeland resident. No patients were transported from the scene, and PCFR cleared the call at 8:11 AM, transferring the investigation to law enforcement authorities.
According to Lakeland Police Department, officers were initially dispatched at 7:14 AM after receiving reports of a woman walking southbound along the railroad tracks adjacent to the 2600 block of Kathleen Rd. Shortly after, a call from CSX indicated their train had struck a pedestrian in that area. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident remains active and ongoing.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Rosa Guerra during this difficult time.
Train-Pedestrian Accidents in Florida
Train-pedestrian accidents are rare but often result in catastrophic outcomes due to the sheer size and force of trains. Florida, with its extensive railway network, sees several such incidents each year, highlighting the importance of rail safety awareness.
Pedestrians are urged to avoid walking on or near train tracks, as even a brief lapse in attention can have fatal consequences. Warning systems and signage are in place to prevent these incidents, but compliance with safety measures is critical to ensuring public safety.
In cases of train-related fatalities, families often face not only emotional grief but also legal and financial challenges. Seeking legal assistance can help determine if negligence or unsafe conditions contributed to the tragedy and if compensation may be available.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a train-related incident, contact Local Accident Reports for support and guidance.