ST. LOUIS – One person is dead after being struck by a MetroLink train in Midtown.

District 5 officers responded to the incident, which occurred around 6:35 p.m.—just west of South Vandeventer Avenue and Interstate 64, behind the Ikea store.

Metro is shuttling passengers between the Central West End and Grand stations. Bus shuttles are transporting passengers between the stations.

Charles Stewart, chief operating officer of Metro Transit, released a statement :

“Shortly before 6:30 p.m. tonight, an individual was lying down on the tracks east of Sarah Avenue in highly restricted area. Despite the prompt actions of the operator, the train was not able to stop before the person was struck and killed,” Stewart said.

“MetroLink service between the Grand Station and the Central West End Station was halted for two hours to allow first responders to arrive and our police partners to investigate.

Tragic incidents like this one are preventable. It is never safe to walk or bicycle on or next to the tracks. Trains cannot swerve to avoid people or vehicles on the tracks. Individuals should only cross train tracks at the designated pedestrian and vehicle crossings. Safety first. If you see tracks, think trains,” Stewart concluded.“