Celebration of life in store for EU senior killed in pedestrian-train collision
A celebration of life is set to take place on Nov. 11 for Julia Padilla, Elmhurst University senior, who lost her life after being struck in a pedestrian-train collision, according to President Troy VanAken in an email sent to the campus community on Nov. 4.
“Early last week, we experienced the tragic loss of Elmhurst University student Julia Padilla,” said VanAken in the email. “Many of us have been hoping for a way to help her family while respecting their need for both space and time to begin to cope with their unimaginable loss.”
A separate vigil was also held for the student in the Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel on Oct. 25, the day it was announced to the campus of this loss.
It was announced to the Elmhurst University campus community on Oct. 25 that an EU student died from a pedestrian-train collision on Oct. 24.
According to a report released by the City of Elmhurst, Elmhurst Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to Park Avenue, between Myrtle Avenue and Cottage Hill at around 1:14 p.m.
An EU Alert was sent to students on Oct. 24, stating there was a “pedestrian-involved train accident north of campus” and to “please avoid Park Ave.”
First responders later identified the student as a 21-year-old woman that had been struck by an eastbound Metra train on the Union Pacific Railroad tracks.
President Troy VanAken sent an email out to Elmhurst University students and staff on Oct. 25, expressing his condolences.
“It’s been a very difficult day, as I am heartbroken at the loss of one of our students yesterday,” said VanAken. “Our campus community has lost a student, a friend, a life full of promise.”
In the Nov. 4 email, president VanAken encouraged that during this difficult time, that the campus community comes together.
“In the meantime, please continue to support each other, especially our students, faculty and staff in the music and education departments; and take care of yourselves,” said VanAken. “And remember that if you’re in need of help and support, a number of resources are always available.”
Students can contact the Office of Student Support Services and Intervention, which is located in the Frick Center room 227. Students may also contact the Office of the Chaplain at 630-617-3025, or reach Chaplain Matheney at 630-926-8028.
Students may also contact the Dupage County 24-Hour Crisis Line at 630-627-1700 or the National Crisis Lifeline and can call or text 988. These hotlines are confidential for those who call.
