Monroe County, MI — A 31-year-old man lost his life Saturday night in a devastating collision with a train while riding a dirt bike in Erie Township. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fatal incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. at a railroad crossing on Sterns Road, a location known for regular train traffic.
Authorities say the victim, identified as Jacob Buchele of Michigan, was traveling westbound on Sterns Road when he approached the railroad tracks. Despite active warning signals and lowered gates, Buchele reportedly crossed the center line and attempted to go around the gate. As he crossed the tracks, a northbound Norfolk Southern train struck his dirt bike.
Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but Buchele was pronounced dead at the scene. According to officials, he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, but the impact was too severe for any protective gear to save his life. His dirt bike was destroyed in the collision.
Investigators believe that alcohol may have been a contributing factor in the crash. However, a final determination will be made once toxicology results are available. Authorities continue to examine other elements of the crash, including speed, road conditions, and the working status of the railroad signals—all of which appeared to be fully operational at the time.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office stressed the importance of adhering to all railroad crossing signals. “No one should ever try to beat a train or go around a lowered gate,” said a department spokesperson. “Even with a helmet and experience, a rider stands little chance against the force of a moving train.”
Community members are mourning the tragic loss of Buchele, whose life was cut short by a decision that could have been avoided. Local officials and safety advocates are using this incident as a grim reminder of the dangers of ignoring crossing warnings and trying to outrun trains, especially at night when visibility is reduced.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge the public to treat every railroad crossing with caution and respect. This tragedy marks another preventable death that underscores the critical need for awareness and responsibility on the road.
