FORT LAUDERDALE — A pedestrian was fatally struck by a Brightline train early Sunday morning in Fort Lauderdale, marking the fourth Broward County death involving the service this year, authorities said.
Fort Lauderdale police responded around 1:30 a.m. to the 700 block of North Andrews Avenue, where officers found an adult victim deceased at the scene, according to department spokesperson Casey Liening. Traffic along the train’s route was reportedly unaffected, and the train continued operating. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatality.
Since Brightline began test runs in 2017, more than 200 people have been struck and killed, largely pedestrians, according to an investigation by the Miami Herald and WLRN. Sunday’s incident brings the total fatalities in Broward County alone to 72.
Local safety advocates emphasize the ongoing need for public awareness around train crossings. “These incidents highlight the risks that pedestrians face near train tracks,” said one transportation safety expert. “Communities must work closely with operators to implement better warning systems, barriers, and educational campaigns to prevent future tragedies.”
Brightline has yet to issue a comment on the Sunday incident. Residents are reminded to exercise caution around tracks, particularly in urban areas where pedestrian activity is high.