Howard Lee Lyons Obituary, Death – Authorities have released additional information about a heartbreaking incident on the Far North Side in which a man lost his life while attempting to rescue his dog from an oncoming train. The tragedy occurred shortly after 5 p.m. on November 13 in the 8200 block of Interchange Parkway, an area that borders busy rail lines near Fratt Road and Northeast Loop 410.
According to police, the man had been chasing after his dog, who unexpectedly ran toward the railway tracks just as a train was approaching. Witnesses told officers that the dog, described as energetic and frightened, darted away from its owner and headed directly toward the rails. Realizing the danger, the man followed quickly behind in an effort to reach the animal before the train arrived.
Despite his attempts, the train was too close, and both the man and the dog were struck. Emergency dispatchers received a 911 call from the train conductor, who immediately reported the collision and stayed at the location to cooperate with authorities. The conductor remained onsite while first responders arrived, providing information to assist investigators in understanding exactly how the incident unfolded.
The Bexar County Medical Examiner later identified the victim as 59-year-old Howard Lee Lyons. Officials confirmed that Lyons died at the scene from injuries sustained in the impact. The devastating circumstances have left many shaken, especially those who witnessed Lyons’ attempt to protect his pet.
Animal Care Services (ACS) was called to the location to take custody of the injured dog, whose name was reported as Blue. According to ACS officials, Blue survived the incident and was transported for veterinary treatment. The agency later shared that the dog had been adopted, although further details about Blue’s condition or recovery were not immediately provided.
Investigators spent several hours documenting the scene, speaking with the train conductor, gathering statements from witnesses, and assessing the area around the tracks. The railway crossing is known to have regular train activity, and authorities are still piecing together whether the man had enough time to react after his dog ran toward danger. Police have not indicated that any mechanical issues, malfunctions, or criminal elements contributed to the collision; rather, it appears to be a tragic accident sparked by a pet suddenly bolting into harm’s way.
Officials emphasized the unpredictability of situations involving pets near traffic or rail lines. Even well-trained animals can become startled or distracted, and their sudden movements can place both them and their owners in significant danger. In this case, Lyons’ instinct to rush after his dog placed him directly in the path of the oncoming train, leaving no margin for escape.
Community members in the neighborhood expressed sadness upon learning the details of the incident, with several noting that pet owners often walk or exercise their animals near the area. The tragedy has prompted renewed caution about keeping dogs leashed or secured when near busy roadways or tracks, especially during times of frequent train movement.
Authorities have not reported any wrongdoing on the part of the train conductor or crew. The conductor’s prompt call to emergency services and willingness to remain at the scene helped expedite the response and provided crucial insight for investigators.
The investigation remains open as officials finalize their reports, but early findings suggest that the event was an unfortunate accident driven by an owner’s desperate attempt to save a beloved pet. As the community processes the loss of Howard Lee Lyons, Animal Care Services continues to monitor the recovery of Blue, the dog he tried so bravely to protect.
