The search continues for a 5-year-old girl who remains missing after a train struck and killed two of her family members in Fremont, Ohio, on Sunday evening.
Fremont Mayor Danny Sanchez said a 58-year-old woman and her 38-year-old daughter were walking along a bridge near the Miles Newton Bridge around 8 p.m. with two young children when they were hit by a train. Both women died at the scene.
A 14-month-old child was also struck and is in critical condition at a hospital in the Toledo area, officials said.
Watch the news conference in full:
During a news conference Monday morning, Sanchez said the search is now focused on locating the 5-year-old.
Multiple agencies, including local police and fire departments and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, are assisting in the search in and around the Sandusky River.
Sanchez said the family is not from Fremont, located about 25 miles southwest of Sandusky. He noted the Sandusky River is a popular fishing spot, especially during the White Bass Run, which draws visitors to the area.
“What started off as a daily fishing trip in Fremont, Ohio, has ended in tragedy,” he said.
About a dozen family members are in the area, according to Sanchez.
“The bridge is clearly marked for no trespassing,” he added. “It’s never a good idea to walk on train tracks, and it’s very unfortunate this took place.”
In a statement, Norfolk Southern said: “We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our hearts are with those affected, their loved ones, and the community during this difficult time. We are working closely with local authorities on their investigation.”
This story was originally published by the Scripps News Group in Cleveland, Ohio.
