A young journalist, aged 22, was tragically killed by a train in Chicago.
Grace Bentkowski, 22, was on her way home to Dyer, Indiana, on 25 July when the accident occurred.
After arriving at Hegewisch Station, she crossed the tracks and was struck by an oncoming train.
Her father, Phil Bentkowski, described the incident, stating that there was no sound warning before the impact, only a horn blast after the train hit her.
The family explained that a large pillar obstructed her view, and she followed others who were crossing the tracks.
Phil Bentkowski expressed his disbelief and grief, noting that he never imagined such a severe outcome from a train leaving the station, expecting at most a minor injury.
He is now advocating for increased safety measures, criticising the lack of warning signs at the crossing.
Grace Bentkowski, who graduated from Ball State University in May, recently began her role as an associate creative producer for NewsNation.
‘Beautiful inside and out’: Family wants answers after young journalist struck, killed at Hegewisch train station https://t.co/6pNIRm6Tes
— WGN TV News (@WGNNews) August 12, 2024
A GoFundMe page remembers her as a dedicated journalist and a hardworking individual who made a significant impact in her short life.
Her brother, Adian Bentkowski, shared that she touched many lives and expressed his sorrow over her loss.
Grace was commuting on the South Shore Line, operated by the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD), which runs between Millennium Station in Chicago and South Bend International Airport in Indiana.
The NICTD has stated that the incident is under investigation.
Fox News Digital has contacted NICTD for further comments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened to Grace Bentkowski?
Grace Bentkowski was struck and killed by a train in Chicago on July 25.
Where was Grace Bentkowski commuting to?
Grace Bentkowski was commuting home to Dyer, Indiana.
What did Grace Bentkowski’s father say about the incident?
He mentioned a safety issue and the lack of ‘stop, look, listen’ safety signs.
What was Grace Bentkowski’s profession?
Grace Bentkowski was an associate creative producer for NewsNation.
Is the incident involving Grace Bentkowski under investigation?
Yes, the incident is under investigation by the transit agency.