A tragic accident unfolded near Mamelodi Gardens station when a man was fatally struck by a train on Friday evening (May 30), suspending railway services for several hours.

According to Metrorail, the incident occurred when the unidentified man crossed the railway line.

Gauteng Metrorail spokesperson Lillian Mofokeng said the man had illegally attempted to cross the rail line while allegedly wearing earphones. She said it was suspected that he was unaware of the approaching train.

Mofokeng said the man was hit as he attempted to cross the tracks near the end of the platform, ignoring safety protocols and designated pedestrian routes.

“Despite the train driver’s efforts to alert him with the horn, the individual, wearing earphones, did not respond to the warning,” said Mofokeng.

She said the impact of the collision was severe, with the man sustaining fatal injuries and becoming trapped beneath the train.

Mofokeng said emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene, which resulted in a temporary suspension of train operations in the area.

Train services from Koedoespoort to Pienaarspoort were redirected to Eerstefabrieke station, while routes from Koedoespoort to Mamelodi Gardens continued as scheduled.

Mofokeng said that after the scene was processed, the train was cleared from the scene and returned to Pretoria station around 21:10.

The body was removed from the railway track around 22:15 and by 22:27 the scene was cleared and normal services were resumed.

She added that Metrorail had provided emotional support and counselling to the affected train crew, as is standard procedure following traumatic incidents of this nature.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time,” she said.

Mofokeng urged the public to exercise caution around railway infrastructure.

“Please cross only at designated areas. One life lost is one too many, and together we can strive to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future. Always be aware that where there is a track, there is possibly an approaching train,” she said.