Salem Man in Critical Condition After Being Hit by Train

The city of Salem has a history with pedestrian vs. train incidents. During one recent summer, four individuals were struck on Salem train tracks in as many weeks.

The view of a train conductor traveling through Salem Photo By: Tim King

(Salem) - A Salem man is listed in critical condition Tuesday morning at OHSU in Portland after being hit by a train Monday evening in Salem.

Salem Police say 26-year-old Joseph Dominick was struck by a southbound train at 16th Street and McGilchrist Street SE, after he tried to run across the tracks in front of the train.

Dominick was thrown into a nearby ditch, and suffered multiple internal injuries and a severe arm injury.

Police say Dominick was drunk at the time of the incident.

The city of Salem has a history with pedestrian vs. train incidents. During one recent summer, four individuals were struck on Salem train tracks in as many weeks.

Each year, railroad officials team up with local law enforcement authorities to conduct "Operation Lifesaver." As the "Lifesaver" train cruises back and forth through Salem, officers contact, educate and sometimes cite pedestrians and drivers who take chances around moving trains. It is an effort to promote awareness of train fatalities and educate the public.