Hackensack, NJ (August 7, 2025) – A tragic rail incident occurred Thursday morning in Hackensack when a woman was fatally struck by a New Jersey Transit train near Essex Street Station, marking the second fatality on the same rail line in just two months.
According to NJ Transit officials, the incident took place at approximately 9:58 a.m. when a Pascack Valley Line train traveling from Hoboken struck a woman on the tracks near the station. Authorities have identified the victim as a trespasser, though her identity has not yet been released.
The train, which departed Hoboken at 9:34 a.m., had five passengers and a full crew onboard. No injuries were reported among those on the train. Emergency crews responded promptly to the scene and secured the area while beginning their investigation.
Rail service was temporarily suspended in both directions on the Pascack Valley Line to allow investigators and cleanup teams to manage the situation. Service was later restored once the area was cleared and deemed safe.
This incident closely mirrors a fatal crash that occurred in May near Hackensack’s Anderson Street Station, where a man was also struck and killed. NJ Transit officials confirmed that both individuals were considered trespassers, and each case remains under active investigation by the NJ Transit Police.
Our thoughts are with the woman’s family and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident.
Train Accidents and Rail Safety in New Jersey
Rail-related fatalities are a deeply concerning issue in New Jersey, particularly on commuter lines like the Pascack Valley Line. The tragic death near Essex Street Station is a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by unauthorized access to active train tracks. These areas are not designed for pedestrian use, and even a momentary misstep can result in fatal consequences.
Thursday’s fatality is the second such incident in Hackensack within a short period, creating urgency around rail safety awareness. While NJ Transit has protocols in place to minimize risks, trespassing remains a persistent issue on both passenger and freight lines throughout the state.
Urban rail corridors, especially in dense areas like Hackensack, are often near residential neighborhoods and commercial zones. These close proximities sometimes lead to dangerous shortcuts by pedestrians trying to cross the tracks or access the stations in unsafe ways. Education, enforcement, and physical deterrents like fencing can all play a role in prevention—but community awareness is crucial.
Train crews and passengers are also affected by these events. Operators involved in fatal strikes often experience lasting emotional trauma, and service delays ripple out to impact entire communities that rely on rail transit daily.
As NJ Transit Police continue their investigation, public safety advocates emphasize the importance of staying clear of rail tracks at all times unless in a designated crossing zone. Following posted signage and being alert around stations is essential.
If someone you love has been affected by a rail-related incident, Local Accident Reports is here to support you. We provide access to information, resources, and guidance that can help you navigate the aftermath of a tragic event. Contact us today to learn how we can help you take the next step forward with care and clarity.
