SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — A 21-month-old girl has died after being struck by an Amtrak train in Springfield’s Indian Orchard neighborhood, leaving her family devastated.

Gloria Elikana, the youngest child of Tanzanian immigrant parents Elikana Jackson and Happiness Raphael, was hit by the train around 6:15 p.m. Wednesday near railroad tracks behind Emily Street. She was transported to Baystate Medical Center, where she later passed away.

The family, who resettled in the U.S. in 2016 after fleeing genocide in Tanzania, is mourning the sudden loss of their youngest child. Gloria’s siblings and parents are heartbroken as they try to come to terms with the tragedy.

The incident is under investigation by authorities, including the Massachusetts State Police and Amtrak officials. It remains unclear exactly how the toddler came to be on or near the tracks at the time of the strike.

This heartbreaking accident has deeply affected the local community. Train safety advocates are once again highlighting the dangers of playing near railroad tracks and urging families to maintain strict supervision around such areas.

Our deepest condolences go out to Gloria’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. May her memory be a blessing.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident is ongoing.