Lucien Jean Obituary EAST FARMINGDALE, LONG ISLAND — Authorities have identified the man tragically killed in a devastating collision between a car and a Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) train Thursday night as 62-year-old Lucien Jean of Wyandanch.
The fatal crash occurred just before 8:30 p.m. near the Pinelawn Station, sending shockwaves through the East Farmingdale community and causing significant disruptions to rail service on the Ronkonkoma Branch.
According to investigators, Jean’s vehicle was positioned on the tracks when it was struck at high speed by the eastbound LIRR train. Officials confirmed that at the time of the crash, the crossing gates were down and the warning lights were flashing properly, signaling an active train crossing. However, it remains unclear why Jean’s vehicle was stopped on the tracks.
The train, traveling between 75 and 80 miles per hour — within the posted speed limit of 80 mph — collided with the vehicle with such force that it caused extensive damage not only to the car but also to vital pieces of LIRR infrastructure. Significant damage was reported to the third rail, and sections of track required immediate repair.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but Jean was pronounced dead at the site of the crash. No injuries to train passengers or crew were reported.
As authorities continue their investigation, they are meticulously sifting through evidence and reviewing surveillance footage from the crossing. Investigators are also speaking with witnesses and examining the condition of the vehicle for possible mechanical issues that could have contributed to the tragedy.
Despite the extensive damage, LIRR crews worked throughout the night to ensure service could resume for the Friday morning commute. Trains operated on a modified schedule along the Ronkonkoma Branch, with service limited to a single track while repairs continued.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with railroad crossings, even when safety mechanisms are functioning properly. The Federal Railroad Administration estimates that a train can take more than a mile to come to a complete stop once emergency brakes are applied, meaning collisions at crossings can be especially deadly.
Local leaders and LIRR officials have expressed their condolences to Jean’s family and urged the public to exercise extreme caution around railroad crossings, regardless of familiarity with the area.
Lucien Jean, described by those who knew him as a kind and hardworking man, leaves behind a grieving family and community. His sudden and tragic loss has left many searching for answers and comfort as investigators work to piece together the circumstances that led to the crash.
Authorities are asking anyone with additional information about the incident to contact local law enforcement.