Jamie Jijian Bartlett, IL Train Accident – A tragic accident claimed the life of a dedicated Village of Bartlett public works employee on Monday morning after the snowplow he was operating was struck by a Metra train at a railroad crossing. The incident has left the community in mourning and raised renewed concerns about safety at rail intersections during winter operations.
According to authorities, the collision occurred at approximately 8:35 a.m. at the intersection of Oak Avenue and Railroad Avenue in Bartlett. The victim, identified as 64-year-old Jamie Jijian, was driving a small municipal snowplow as part of his routine duties clearing roadways amid winter weather conditions. While crossing the railroad tracks, the snowplow was hit by a Metra District West (MD-W) line train traveling through the area.
Bartlett police reported that the impact caused catastrophic damage to the snowplow and left Jijian with severe injuries. Emergency responders from the Bartlett Police Department and Bartlett Fire Department arrived swiftly at the scene and immediately provided medical aid. He was transported in critical condition to St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the train’s passengers or crew members. Metra officials confirmed that everyone on board was safely accounted for following the collision. Nonetheless, the crash caused significant disruption to train service along the MD-W line as emergency personnel and investigators secured the area.
Metra temporarily suspended train movement in both directions to allow first responders and investigators to conduct their work safely. Service was later restored, although officials warned passengers to expect residual delays throughout the day. Outbound trains eventually resumed boarding at platform #2 at stations in Schaumburg, Hanover Park, and Bartlett.
The Metra Police Department is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Authorities are examining conditions at the railroad crossing, visibility at the time of the crash, warning signal functionality, and other potential contributing factors. No further details have yet been released, and investigators indicated that a full report will follow once the review is complete.
The loss of Jamie Jijian has deeply affected the Village of Bartlett and its residents. Village officials released statements expressing profound sorrow, describing Jijian as a hardworking and devoted employee who took pride in serving his community. Coworkers remembered him as dependable, kind, and committed to keeping local roads safe, particularly during challenging winter conditions.
As the community grieves, condolences continue to pour in for Jijian’s family, friends, and colleagues. His passing serves as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by public works employees who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep communities functioning and safe.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation into the accident continues.