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May 17, 2026

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LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Rafael Cruz dies in train accident near Figueroa Street

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Metro A Line train struck man near North Avenue 61 in Highland Park

May 07, 2026 | Highland Park, CA

A 60-year-old man died after being struck by a Metro light rail train on the A Line in the Highland Park neighborhood of Los Angeles.

What happened in the crash?

train and trackRafael Cruz, 60, died after being struck by a Metro A Line light rail train near North Avenue 61 and Figueroa Street in Los Angeles.

  • Date: May 7
  • Time: Approximately 7:17 a.m.
  • Location: 100 North Avenue 61 and Figueroa Street
  • Incident: Pedestrian struck by light rail train
  • Outcome: Pronounced deceased at the scene

Why do these accidents happen?

Train incidents can result from several factors, including signal issues, track conditions, mechanical problems, or pedestrian actions. Investigators review whether the crossing area was properly secured.

Cause CategoryDescriptionSource
Signal or track failureIssues with signals or rail infrastructureFederal Railroad Administration
Mechanical malfunctionProblems with train braking or systemsNTSB
Pedestrian behaviorUnauthorized crossing or distractionCDC data

Legal Insights

National analysts note that families facing these situations benefit from prompt independent review to protect evidence.

In cases such as this, an attorney can help families navigate the process when dealing with large transportation companies that have extensive resources. — Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal.

  • Review official reports as they become available
  • Understand available options for compensation related to loss and distress
  • Ensure timely preservation of site details

Newsline is a premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc. The publication maintains rigorous editorial standards and an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity. 

Corrections are reviewed within 24 hours under the Corrections Policy.

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)

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If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.

(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).

Tags: Latest News, Commercial, Pedestrian Accident, California, Fatal Crash, Train, Metro, North Avenue 61, Figueroa Street, Highland Park, Los Angeles

The staff of Newsline would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to Rafael Cruz and family

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