Local

Driver Killed
Trying to Beat Train

March 30, 2012
Admin
Wreckage of 2007 Honda Odyssey (Photo Courtesy of WPTV)

A 61-year-old woman died this morning when she tried to beat an approaching train that struck her mini-van.

The crash happened at 7:30 a.m. at Southern and West Sugar House Road, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue spokesman Capt. Don DeLucia said.

Arlene J. Gallo, 16 Calvin Ave, Lehigh Acres, was driving a 2007 Honda Odyssey east on Southern Boulevard.

A U.S. Sugar train hauling 29 empty train cars was heading south on the tracks, according to a Florida Highway Patrol crash report released this afternoon.

The red flashing lights, audible signal and the crossing arm were all activated while the train was approaching.

The front of the train hit the driver’s side of the Odyssey. Gallo was pronounced dead at the scene.

Driving the train was 64-year-old Leland F. Webster of Okeechobee. He and his 60-year-old passenger Merle W. Phillips, also of Okeechobee, were not injured in the crash, the report says.

The train was stopped on the tracks blocking both eastbound and westbound lanes of Southern, also known as State Road 80, for more than two hours.

7 thoughts on “Driver Killed
Trying to Beat Train”

    1. Thank you. Arlene was my aunt and I am thankful that she had loving friends.

      Take Care Scott.

    2. Knew her when I was in High School.
      Remeber dancing with her in the garage back in the day. Going to the beach, etc. Ah the 60’s.

      RIP

  2. Graduated with Arlene from Swampscott High Massachusetts 1968, we were not friends but I remember her from her new Camero she drove in those days. I dated and married one of her boy friends. May thoughts are with her family, I am very sorry

  3. I would like to send my condolences to Arlene’s family. I was there at the scene of the accident and would like to contact her family about the ressurection of hope to see her again on the earth. I’m one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and would love to share the Bible’s message with her family!

  4. Arlene was always friendly and fun to be with in Jr High and Highschool. Lots of laughter in Cafe and class. Spent may wonderful times with her family.

    Our family keeps all of you in our hearts and prayers
    Love,
    Gail

  5. Arlene was a very special person to our Family! Was Kind ,giving, Fun to be with , lots of laughter, Great person to know! Thoughts and prayers go out to her family

    Rest in peace,
    Love,
    Chris and Jenn Ruest (Crowley)

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