Woman Killed Attempting Train Hopping in Grand Rapids
A woman made an attempt at train hopping near Market Avenue and Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids, but died trying.
Understanding Train Hopping and Freighthopping
People have been sneaking onto trains for more than 160 years. The practice, commonly known as train hopping or freighthopping, became widespread in the United States following the American Civil War during the mid-to-late 1800s.
In Michigan, train hopping is typically considered a misdemeanor offense. A conviction can carry penalties including up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $100, or both.
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Tragically, a woman attempting train hopping in Grand Rapids lost her life during the incident.
Woman Killed After an Attempted Train Hopping in Grand Rapids
According to WOOD TV 8, Jacob Davis witnessed a woman attempting to hop a train in Grand Rapids on Memorial Day morning while driving to work. Sensing that something was wrong, Davis yelled at the woman and honked his horn in an effort to stop her.
The woman did not respond to Davis’ shouts or horn, but she attempted to communicate with him using sign language. Davis then realized the woman was deaf.
After an initial failed attempt, the woman tried again, running alongside the train and attempting to jump between two rail cars. During the second attempt, something went wrong, and she lost her life.
Davis said, "I hope her family gets the closure of having to bury what they can of their daughter. No one knows her story, and now we can't get it. Her story ended right there on the train."
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