Tragic train accident in Chicago: Young journalist dies

A young, 22-year-old journalist died in a tragic accident in Chicago when a train ran over him.

Grace Bentkowski, 22, was driving home to Dyer, Indiana, on July 25 when the accident occurred.

When she arrived at Hegewisch station, she crossed the tracks and was hit by an oncoming train.

Her father, Phil Bentkowski, described the incident by saying that there was no audible warning before the impact, only a horn honk after the train hit them.

The family explained that a large pillar blocked their view and they followed others crossing the tracks.

Phil Bentkowski expressed his disbelief and sadness, saying he never expected such dire consequences when a train leaves the station, and that he expected only minor injuries.

He is now calling for increased safety measures and criticising the lack of warning signs at the crossing.

Grace Bentkowski, who graduated from Ball State University in May, recently joined NewsNation as an associate creative producer.

“Beautiful inside and out”: Family wants answers after young journalist was hit and killed at Hegewisch train station

— WGN-TV News (@WGNNews) 12 August 2024

A GoFundMe page remembers her as a dedicated journalist and hard-working person who accomplished much in her short life.

Her brother, Adian Bentkowski, said she touched many lives and expressed his regret for her loss.

Grace commuted on the South Shore Line, operated by the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD), which runs between Chicago's Millennium Station and South Bend International Airport in Indiana.

The NICTD said it was investigating the incident.

Fox News Digital has contacted NICTD for further comment.