CSX Train Strikes and Kills Pedestrian in Ocala
A 60-year-old woman died after being hit by a freight train in the 2300 block of Northeast 36th Avenue.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Accidents
Susan Bensch, 60, was struck and killed by a CSX train in Ocala on October 18, 2026. The freight train was traveling eastbound from Tampa to Jacksonville when the collision occurred.
Why it matters
The tragedy marks the second fatal collision involving a train in Ocala within the span of four days. Local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding these incidents occurring near railway crossings.
The CSX train involved in the October 18 incident was pulling 96 empty tankers during its journey. Officials are also reviewing a separate October 15 fatality where an unidentified man was struck in the 1000 block of Northeast 14th Street.
The players
Susan Bensch
She was the 60-year-old victim struck and killed by a freight train in Ocala.
CSX
It is a major American freight railroad company that operates the train line involved in the fatal incident.
The details
The operator of the CSX train reported seeing an obstruction on the tracks and attempted to bring the train to a stop before the impact occurred. The collision took place in the 2300 block of Northeast 36th Avenue.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: An unidentified man was killed by a train in the 1000 block of Northeast 14th Street.
October 18, 2026: Susan Bensch was struck and killed by a train in the 2300 block of Northeast 36th Avenue.
Legal Context
These fatal incidents follow a pattern identified in the 2026 Ocala railway safety audit regarding the dangers of pedestrian access to tracks. Increased scrutiny of crossing protocols often follows clusters of rail-related fatalities in urban areas.
Residents should exercise extreme caution near railway crossings and observe all warning signs and gate closures. Local authorities may implement increased patrols or safety advisories in the vicinity of Northeast 36th Avenue and Northeast 14th Street.
The takeaway
Pedestrians are reminded to remain vigilant and stay clear of all active rail lines to prevent tragic accidents. Observing designated crossing points is the most effective way to ensure personal safety when navigating near train corridors.
Further reading
For more information on safety incidents in the area, visit the Ocala Accidents section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ocala Gazette.
