Joseph Jay De Frates Fatally Struck by Train on Gold Course Drive [Rohnert Park, CA]

SMART Commuter Train Hits 29-Year-Old Round Rock Man near Commerce Boulevard

 
ROHNERT PARK, CA (August 30, 2018) – A pedestrian was struck and killed by a train on Gold Course Drive, late Thursday afternoon. The victim was later identified as 29-year-old Joseph Jay De Frates of Round Rock, Texas.
 
Officials responded to the scene on the railroad tracks near Commerce Boulevard around 5:00 PM, after receiving reports about the collision.
 
According to Rohnert Park Police officers, the victim was struck by a northbound SMART commuter train. One witness stated that the man appeared to have headphones on his ears as he was walked on the sidewalk with his head down looking at something in his hands. A videotape of the accident shows De Frates attempting to step out of the train’s way, as per Sonoma County sheriff’s representatives.
 
Minutes after the collision, the victim was found lying on the ground near a fence, about 10 yards from the tracks. De Frates was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.
 
No additional information has been released to the public, as the authorities continue to investigate the fatal incident.

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We send our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Joseph Jay De Frates. Wishing them strength and comfort as they grieve for their loss. He relocated to Sonoma County less than a year ago from Round Rock, Texas, and was suffering from a seizure disorder. May he rest in peace.

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