(Holland, Michigan – October 24, 2011)
An 18-year-old freshman student at Hope College in Holland, MI died Monday night about 8:49 P.M. at CSX railroad tracks and 12th Street pedestrian crossing when he was hit by a slow-moving CSX freight train.
Joshua P. Boerigter of Portage, MI was found near the crossing, which is just a block east of the college campus and provides a direct route between the campus and downtown Holland. The crossing is equipped with flashing lights and bells, which authorities alleged were operating properly.
Ottawa County Central Dispatch called both medical and police personnel to the tragic scene, while a statement from Hope College announced that the campus community would gather at 11 A.M. Tuesday at Dimnent Memorial Chapel for a time of prayer and reflection. The tragedy was the third accident and second fatality at the 12th Street crossing
