WTVM.com and WTVM News Leader 9, Columbus, GA | Railroad Crossing Safety Top Priority For Deputies

Railroad Crossing Safety Top Priority For Deputies

As Smith Station seniors prepare to graduate, they'll be thinking about a classmate who didn't reach that milestone. In 2004, 17-year old Kelly Pierce was crossing the railroad tracks near Smith Station High, when she was hit and killed by an oncoming train.

Lee county sheriff's deputies and railroad workers joined forces Wednesday. They lined the railroad crossing at Lee Road 298 and 243, handing out information, they hope will save lives.

"Today we are out here education drivers on safety at railroad crossings and let them know the dangers and give them information that might save their lives," said Lee County Sheriff's Leuitenant Glen Hall.

Nearly every driver that crosses these tracks remembers 17-year old Kelly Pierce. Samantha Denham is good friends with the Pierce family.

"I know she contributed a lot to society, she was a christian, a cheerleader, church leader, she was just an all around good person," said Denham.

In 2004, Pierce was headed to school to start her senior year, when her car collided with a train at the crossing. Authorities say the wreckage was dragged for a quarter of a mile before the train could stop.

Since the accident safety arms have been put up. But that still doesn't stop some drivers, who go around. Deputies and railroad workers are hoping drivers who were handed out information will think twice before making this deadly mistake.

"I just feel awful for the Pierce family, Ms. Pierce, she was my teacher and she's a sweetheart too. It shouldn't have happened to them and I hope it doesn't happen again to anyone else," said Denham.

 This is a big safety week for the Lee county sheriff's office. Wednesday, they were at railroad crossings. Thursday "Click it or Ticket" begins. Officers will be on Fredrick Road, handing out driver safety information and tickets, if you aren't buckled up.