A 15-year-old boy was fatally struck by a River Line train Thursday morning, August 8, 2024, while on his way to a soccer scrimmage in Palmyra, Burlington County, New Jersey. The incident occurred at approximately 8:19 a.m. at the Chestnut Street crossing, a location frequently used by students. The victim, Matthew Dickinson, was a student-athlete at Palmyra High School.
“Unbearable tragedy struck one of our beloved families this morning with the loss of their 15-year-old son,” was posted on the borough of Palmyra’s website.
The train, which was traveling northbound, had 28 passengers at the time of the accident. Neither the passengers nor the train operator were injured. NJ Transit police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The interim superintendent of the Palmyra School District shared the emotional toll this tragedy has taken on the community, noting that the student was academically strong and well-liked by his peers. Grief counselors have been available at Palmyra High School to assist students, staff, and community members during this difficult time. Counselors will also be available on the first day of school.
The crossing where the accident occurred is part of the River Line’s pathway near Palmyra High School, with athletic fields on both sides. Despite regular safety education programs conducted by New Jersey Transit, which include lessons on how to cross the tracks safely, the area remains a point of concern. Mayor Tait mentioned that discussions with NJ Transit are underway to assess and possibly enhance safety measures at the location. Neighbors have raised concerns about the safety of the tracks near residential areas, with some noting issues such as malfunctioning lights and railings that occasionally get stuck and take significant time to repair.
The Borough of Palmyra expressed its condolences in a statement, saying, “Mayor Gina Ragomo Tait, the Members of Borough Council, our Police Department and other First Responders, and all Borough staff and volunteers, extend our deepest and most heartfelt prayers and sympathies to the family, their friends and neighbors, and his teachers, classmates and teammates alike.”
Many in the community regarded Dickinson as a valued friend, teammate, and student. One individual took to social media to express heartfelt condolences to the family and mentioned they would keep them in their prayers.
As the investigation continues, the community is focused on supporting those affected and ensuring the safety of its students. Further details are expected to emerge as NJ Transit police continue their work.
