Joseph VanZandt Obituary, Death – A tragic incident occurred in Albany on Wednesday afternoon when a local resident lost his life after being struck by a passing Amtrak train. The event, which took place near the Queen Avenue railroad crossing, has prompted renewed warnings from authorities about the dangers of ignoring railway safety signals.
According to the Albany Police Department, the incident happened around 4:16 p.m. and involved 28-year-old Joseph VanZandt, a resident of Albany. Witnesses at the scene reported that VanZandt had been walking his dog in the area when he attempted to cross the railroad tracks. At the time, a freight train was stationary on one set of tracks while the safety arms at the crossing were already lowered, signaling that a train was approaching.
Police said witnesses observed VanZandt and his dog go around the lowered crossing barriers and pass by the stopped freight train. Unfortunately, as he proceeded to cross the other track, a southbound Amtrak train approached at full speed and struck him before he could move out of the way.
Emergency responders were quickly called to the scene, but despite their efforts, VanZandt was pronounced deceased. His dog, miraculously, appeared unharmed during the incident. Authorities said the animal was safely handed over to one of VanZandt’s friends who arrived at the scene shortly after the accident.
The Albany Police Department and Amtrak officials collaborated at the site as part of their investigation, while the tracks were temporarily closed to allow first responders to complete their work. Train services were briefly delayed but later resumed after safety checks were completed.
Authorities emphasized that the crossing gates and lights were functioning correctly at the time of the incident. They reiterated that safety barriers are in place for the protection of both pedestrians and motorists, and that attempting to bypass them can lead to dangerous or even fatal outcomes.
In a statement following the incident, the police department urged members of the public to always wait for the gates to fully raise before crossing railroad tracks, even if it appears clear. “These safety devices are designed to save lives,” an officer noted. “Ignoring them or attempting to cross when the warning arms are down is never worth the risk.”
Local residents who frequent the area said that the Queen Avenue crossing is a busy intersection, with both freight and passenger trains passing through regularly. Some have called for additional safety measures, such as clearer signage or increased public awareness campaigns about rail safety. However, police stressed that personal caution remains the most effective form of prevention.
Train-related accidents remain a significant concern across the country. According to rail safety experts, incidents often occur when individuals underestimate the speed of oncoming trains or assume that stopped trains mean the track is clear. In most cases, trains are unable to stop quickly enough to prevent collisions due to their size and speed.
Community members who live near the crossing have expressed condolences for VanZandt’s family and described him as a kind and caring person who loved his dog. The tragedy has left many shaken and serves as a somber reminder of the importance of heeding safety warnings.
As the investigation continues, police have said they do not suspect any foul play and believe the event to be a tragic accident. They are using the incident as an opportunity to remind the public of the importance of patience and awareness near train tracks.
The Albany Police Department concluded its statement by extending its sympathies to VanZandt’s loved ones and thanking the witnesses and first responders who assisted at the scene. They also reiterated their plea for everyone to prioritize safety near rail crossings to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In summary, the incident highlights how a few seconds of caution at railroad crossings can mean the difference between life and loss — a lesson authorities hope the community will take to heart.
