Fort Worth, Texas, November 21, 2025
A 24-year-old man, Fabian Riojas, has been arrested for manslaughter after a train collision in Fort Worth, Texas, that claimed the life of a 5-year-old child. The incident occurred when Riojas bypassed a lowered railroad crossing gate and was struck by a Trinity Railway Express train. The child died at the scene while the driver was injured and taken to the hospital. No injuries were reported among the train’s 43 passengers. The investigation is ongoing as police assess the circumstances leading to this tragic event.
Fort Worth, Texas
Driver Arrested in Fatal Train Collision
FORT WORTH, Texas – A 24-year-old man has been arrested and charged with manslaughter following a tragic train collision that resulted in the death of a 5-year-old child. The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, when the driver attempted to bypass a lowered railroad crossing gate and was struck by a Trinity Railway Express (TRE) train. The child was pronounced dead at the scene, while the adult driver sustained injuries and was transported to a hospital. No injuries were reported among the 43 passengers aboard the train. The driver, identified as Fabian Riojas, remains in custody as the investigation continues.
Details of the Incident
The collision took place shortly before 4 p.m. at the intersection of Elliot Reeder Road and Colony Court in Fort Worth. According to police reports, Riojas, driving a black Dodge Charger, attempted to drive around the activated railroad barricade as the eastbound TRE train approached. The vehicle was struck on the passenger side by the train, leading to the child’s death and the adult driver’s hospitalization. The specific relationship between Riojas and the child has not been publicly disclosed.
Community Response and Legal Proceedings
Following the incident, Riojas was arrested and booked into the Fort Worth jail on a charge of manslaughter-traffic accident. As of Thursday afternoon, he remains in custody, and it is unclear if bond has been set or whether he has retained legal representation. The Fort Worth Police Department is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Background Context
Railroad crossing accidents are a significant concern in the United States, with numerous incidents resulting in fatalities and injuries each year. These accidents often occur when drivers attempt to bypass lowered crossing gates, leading to collisions with oncoming trains. Authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to railroad crossing signals and barriers to ensure public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in the Fort Worth train collision?
A 24-year-old man, Fabian Riojas, attempted to drive around a lowered railroad crossing gate and was struck by a TRE train, resulting in the death of a 5-year-old child and injuries to the adult driver.
What charges has Fabian Riojas faced?
Fabian Riojas has been arrested and charged with manslaughter-traffic accident in connection with the fatal train collision.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The Fort Worth Police Department is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. As of Thursday afternoon, Riojas remains in custody, and it is unclear if bond has been set or whether he has retained legal representation.
What are the safety concerns related to railroad crossings?
Railroad crossing accidents are a significant concern in the United States, often occurring when drivers attempt to bypass lowered crossing gates, leading to collisions with oncoming trains. Authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to railroad crossing signals and barriers to ensure public safety.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Fort Worth, Texas |
| Incident Date | November 19, 2025 |
| Victim | 5-year-old child |
| Driver | Fabian Riojas, 24 |
| Charge | Manslaughter-traffic accident |
| Train Involved | Trinity Railway Express (TRE) |
| Passenger Count on Train | 43 |
| Outcome for Train Passengers | No injuries reported |
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