Wanda Faye Harris Obituary, Death – A tragic incident unfolded in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, on Wednesday afternoon when a 66-year-old woman lost her life after being struck by a Union Pacific train. Authorities identified the victim as Wanda Faye Harris, a resident of Wauwatosa.
According to the Wauwatosa Police Department, the fatal accident happened shortly after 3:30 p.m. near the area of 111th Street and Burleigh Street. Police reported that Harris was walking on foot when she was struck by the oncoming train.
Emergency responders from the Wauwatosa Fire Department arrived at the scene quickly and immediately began life-saving efforts in an attempt to revive the woman. Despite their best efforts, Harris was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of her injuries.
Investigators said that Harris was walking from east to west across the railroad tracks as the train was approaching. Police indicated that this was not a designated railroad crossing area, and the incident did not occur at a marked pedestrian or vehicle crossing. Union Pacific officials described the woman as a “trespasser” because she was on the tracks in a restricted area not meant for pedestrians.
Authorities emphasized that the incident was determined to be non-criminal. There was no indication of foul play or suspicious circumstances surrounding the tragic accident. It appears to have been a heartbreaking accident resulting from Harris walking across the tracks while the train was in motion.
Union Pacific also released a statement following the accident, confirming that none of the train’s crew members were injured during the incident. The company stated that employees who were present during the traumatic event would be offered support services and resources to help them cope with the emotional aftermath.
Initially, early reports had indicated that the victim was 67 years old, but the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed her correct age as 66. The Medical Examiner’s Office worked to positively identify Harris and notify her family.
The accident scene was blocked off for several hours as police conducted their investigation. Authorities examined the circumstances of the accident, took witness statements, and reviewed the scene to piece together the sequence of events that led to Harris’s death.
Train-related fatalities, especially involving pedestrians, remain a serious concern across the country. Railroads often warn of the dangers of walking on or near train tracks, as trains can approach quickly and quietly, making them difficult to avoid if a person is too close.
Wauwatosa residents expressed their sadness following the news of Harris’s death. Some community members noted that the area near 111th and Burleigh streets does not have designated pedestrian crossings along the tracks, making it particularly dangerous for anyone attempting to cross outside of marked areas.
Union Pacific and local authorities reminded the public of the importance of railroad safety and the need to avoid walking on train tracks at any time. Railroad tracks are private property, and walking along them without authorization is both illegal and highly dangerous.
The death of Wanda Faye Harris serves as a somber reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike when people cross railroad tracks in unauthorized areas. Trains require a significant distance to come to a full stop, and even if a conductor sees someone on the tracks, there is often not enough time to avoid a collision.
Wauwatosa police said that their investigation into the incident is complete and that no criminal charges are being pursued. The case has been ruled an accident.
Officials from Union Pacific extended their condolences to Harris’s family and loved ones, acknowledging the sadness of the incident. They reiterated their commitment to promoting rail safety and providing support to their employees affected by the tragedy.
This incident highlights the importance of public awareness campaigns about railroad safety, particularly in areas where train tracks are accessible to pedestrians. Railroad companies and local governments often work together to educate communities about the dangers of crossing tracks outside of designated areas.
In the aftermath of this accident, Wauwatosa residents hope to raise greater awareness of railroad safety and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. Many believe that increased signage, barriers, or public education programs could help discourage dangerous behavior around train tracks.
As the community mourns the loss of Wanda Faye Harris, her death serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the risks associated with crossing train tracks unlawfully or without caution. The tragic event has left a lasting impact on her family, friends, and the Wauwatosa community.
Funeral arrangements for Harris have not yet been announced. Meanwhile, city officials and Union Pacific representatives continue to stress the importance of safety near railways, urging everyone to stay off the tracks and use only designated crossings when necessary.
The accident remains a painful chapter for Wauwatosa, underscoring the critical need for continued efforts to promote railroad safety and prevent future tragedies like this one.