Grayslake Train Accident Update: Woman Dies After Being Struck by Freight Train Near High School

GRAYSLAKE, Illinois — A woman died after being struck by a freight train near Grayslake Central High School on Monday afternoon, October 19, 2026, prompting a police investigation, Metra service disruptions and closures at several railroad crossings during the evening rush hour. <Cite refs={[“turn645922news14″,”turn645922search3”]}/>

Emergency crews from the Grayslake Fire Protection District and Grayslake Police Department responded at approximately 4:35 p.m. to the area near North Lake Street and Hillside Avenue following reports that a person had been struck by a train. The incident occurred north of Center Street, according to fire officials. <Cite refs={[“turn645922news14”]}/>

An adult woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities had not publicly identified her in the initial reports, and her exact age was not immediately available. Officials have not released further details about the circumstances leading to the collision. <Cite refs={[“turn645922news14″,”turn645922search3”]}/>

The freight train involved was operated by Canadian National Railway. Its position at the intersection of rail lines affected Metra’s North Central Service and Milwaukee District North lines, preventing trains from operating north of the junction. Metra worked to maintain partial service by turning trains around where possible while the investigation continued. <Cite refs={[“turn645922news14″,”turn645922search1”]}/>

The incident also resulted in closures at the Center Street, Illinois Route 120 and Illinois Route 83 railroad crossings. Drivers were urged to use alternate routes, with Lake Street remaining open according to fire officials. The timing of the crossings’ reopening was not immediately known. <Cite refs={[“turn645922news14”]}/>

The investigation was ongoing, and officials had not yet confirmed which agency would lead it. Additional information about the woman and the circumstances of the incident may be released as authorities continue their work. <Cite refs={[“turn645922news14″,”turn645922search3”]}/>

Commuters traveling through Grayslake were advised to monitor official Metra and local police updates for changes to train service and road access.

Disclaimer: This report reflects information published about the October 19 incident. Details may change as authorities release further findings.