Bakersfield Man Killed in Train Collision

A 39-year-old Bakersfield resident died after being struck by a train on April 20, 2026.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Accidents

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring receding railroad tracks, evoking a sense of somber finality.
The Kern County coroner has confirmed the identity of James William Almond Jr., who died following a train collision in Bakersfield on April 20. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

The Kern County coroner confirmed that James William Almond Jr. was killed in a train collision at the intersection of Q Street and James Street. The 39-year-old Bakersfield resident was declared deceased at the scene following the incident.

Why it matters

The identification of the victim by the county coroner provides closure regarding the circumstances of the fatal collision. It marks a formal conclusion to the initial investigation of the tragic event that occurred in the local community.

The Kern County coroner officially confirmed the identity of the 39-year-old victim following the incident. Law enforcement and investigative agencies have concluded the initial identification phase of the process.

The players

James William Almond Jr.

He was a 39-year-old Bakersfield resident who died following a train collision.

Kern County coroner

This office is responsible for investigating deaths within the jurisdiction and officially identifying victims of fatal incidents.

The details

The collision took place at the intersection of Q Street and James Street, where the victim was struck by a train. Emergency responders arrived to find the individual deceased at the site of the impact.

Timeline

  1. The collision occurred at 9:13 p.m. on April 20, 2026.

Legal Context

Fatalities involving trains at street-level intersections remain a persistent concern for municipal safety planners. This incident follows protocols set by the Federal Railroad Administration's grade crossing safety standards regarding local transit safety.

The intersection of Q Street and James Street serves as a regular thoroughfare for residents, and this event highlights the necessity of strictly adhering to rail crossing signals. Local officials continue to maintain safety protocols for all residents utilizing the area.

The takeaway

Pedestrians and drivers should always exercise extreme caution and strictly follow warning signals when approaching active rail crossings. Staying alert near tracks is the most effective way to prevent future tragic accidents in the community.

Further reading

Learn more about local safety trends on the Bakersfield accidents section page.

Source note: This article includes information reported by KGET 17.