Man Killed By Train Identified As Fort Bliss Soldier

The man who was struck and killed by a train was identified as a Fort Bliss soldier, officials on post said Monday.

Army Spc. Jesse Gilbert, 23, was killed about 3 p.m. Saturday when he was hit by a train near Fort Bliss’ Cassidy Gate.

“We are saddened by the loss of one of our Team Bliss soldiers, especially under these tragic and seemingly preventable circumstances,” Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard, Fort Bliss commander, said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and his fellow soldiers.”

Gilbert joined the U.S. Army in March 2009, in Centerville, Tenn. He was assigned to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, where he was a cannon crew member for an artillery weapons system. Gilbert was awarded the National Defense Service Ribbon.

Fort Bliss officials said Gilbert’s family was notified of the incident, and they are planning funeral arrangements. Gilbert is survived by his wife and child.

Police aid Gilbert was walking north on the railroad tracks in the path of a southbound train. The train conductor said he noticed the man and gave numerous warnings for Gilbert to get off of the tracks, but was unable to stop the train in time to avoid striking Gilbert.

The El Paso Police Department continues to investigate. Because the death did not occur on a roadway, police said it will not be considered a traffic fatality. The classification of this death will be pending on the outcome of the investigation, officials said