Train kills teen near high school in Pleasanton

Pleasanton police have said the death of an Amador Valley High School student on the train tracks near the school this afternoon was an apparent suicide.

Witnesses said she appeared to walk in front of the approaching Union Pacific train at the Santa Rita Road crossing.

Principal Bill Coupe identified the girl as freshman Evelyn Gonzales in an e-mail to parents and guardians.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Evelyn’s family and friends at this difficult time,” he said.

Santa Rita Road was blocked by the freight train for about three hours as investigators combed the area of impact and interviewed train crew. It was re-opened about 6:30 p.m.

Counselors were available immediately after the accident and were available through the evening and on Saturday as needed, said Myla Grasso, public information officer for the Pleasanton Unified School District.

Lt. Jeff Bretzing said he could not say why Gonzales walked onto the tracks but the investigation is continuing.

The incident was called into police at 2:32 p.m. The last period at Amador ended at 3:09 p.m. Students can leave campus earlier on pass if approved by the district office or if their sixth period class was canceled.

During the time the Union Pacific train was stopped on the single track line, other freight trains and ACE Train commuters were backed up. ACE provided buses for commuters trying to reach destinations in or around Pleasanton.