Train Fatal On Peninsula May Be Suicide

REDWOOD CITY, CA -- The woman who was hit and killed by Caltrain while she crossed the tracks is believed to have committed suicide, authorities said.

The San Mateo County Sheriff's Transit Police Bureau, who patrols the Caltrain corridor, is investigating Friday morning's fatal incident that took place at 5:44 a.m. at the Whipple Avenue crossing.

"While it is early in the investigation, this incident appears to have been an intentional act. However, the final cause of death and identification of the individual will be determined by the San Mateo County Coroner's office," San Mateo County Transit District spokeswoman Tasha Bartholomew said in a statement. "No matter what the circumstances, it is always regrettable when a life is lost. Caltrain reminds everyone to be safe around train tracks.

When the southbound No. 102 train with 50 people on board struck the woman, all trains were initially stopped so emergency personnel could inspect the scene. No one on the train was hurt.

The San Mateo County Coroner arrived almost an hour later. All train were operating at maximum speed by a little after 7 a.m.

The incident marks Caltrain's first fatality of 2019.

--Image via Renee Schiavone, Patch