California has been faced with a recent rash of train crashes. Almost all of those incidents could have been avoided if people understood basic rail safety. That is why San

Gabriel Police Department is partnered with Union Pacific and Operation Lifesaver to host an ”Officer on the Train” event held on October 7th in San Gabriel.

In this operation, a special train allowed law enforcement officers to see first hand any unsafe motorist behavior at crossings and trespassers/pedestrians on railroad property.

The operation was held at the intersection of Ramona Street and Mission Road in the City of San Gabriel.

”This is just one way we can call attention to highway-railroad grade crossing and pedestrian safety. We always look for unique ways to deliver our safety message to the general public and civic leaders,” said Rich Castagna, General Superintendent – Union Pacific Railroad Transportation Services.

”Officer on the Train” allows police officers to ride on trains and observe motorist behavior at highway/railroad grade crossings. If a motorist violates grade crossing tragic laws, the police officer on the train radios an officer near the crossing who can issue the violating motorist a citation. The ticket serves as a reminder for safety and allows our officers to educate motorists on the importance of obeying all traffic related laws pertaining to railroad crossings.

”Unfortunately, some people only learn when they get a ticket or are involved in a traffic

collision with a train. Train crossings are very dangerous for both motorists and pedestrians. Our goal is to educate motorists on the importance of railroad crossing safety,” said Chief David A. Layton.