Tragedy struck in Gary, Indiana, when a family lost five members in a collision involving their vehicle and a train on Wednesday night. According to the Gary Police Department (GPD), all five individuals were ejected from the car during the crash with a South Shore Line train. Unfortunately, they were pronounced dead at the scene, as reported by CBS News Chicago.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office identified the victims as 24-year-old DeMario Craig, 20-year-old Maurice Parrish, 21-year-old Briontowns, and two others, also aged 20, Sheris Parrish and Latiannaking.
Initial investigations suggest that the train struck the vehicle as it was attempting to navigate a railway intersection. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the passengers on the train, according to a GPD press release.
Mike Noland, president of South Shoreline, cautioned drivers about the dangers of crossing active railroad tracks. He emphasized, “Whenever active cross protection is active, don’t cross the track. You’re not worth 30 seconds or a minute to save. You’re at risk for yourself and others.”
Witnesses mentioned that the car drove around the lowered gate at the intersection of US 20 and Utah Street. A local father, Howard Hawkins, reflected on the impact of the incident, stating, “I think I won’t fully process this until I get home and fall asleep. It’s when I’m not busy that it will hit me.” He shared that one of the deceased was his son’s girlfriend, and they had a young daughter together.
The GPD extended their condolences to the families and friends affected by this devastating event, indicating their commitment to offering support during this challenging time.
As reported by CBS News Chicago, Noland noted that this incident marked the first fatal train crash of 2025.
