Mom Was Livestreaming Run Minutes Before She Was Fatally Struck by Train, Family Says: ‘She Was Laughing’

A family in Arizona is coming to terms with the tragic loss of Thelma Candelaria, a devoted mother whose life was abruptly cut short when she was struck by a train while out for a morning jog. The incident occurred on Thursday, October 15, at approximately 6 a.m., near a railroad crossing in Eloy, around 50 miles northwest of Tucson.

According to the local police, officers responded to reports of a pedestrian being hit by a Union Pacific train. Initial investigations revealed that the engineer of the train attempted to warn Candelaria by sounding the horn and activating the emergency brakes as soon as he observed her walking on the tracks. A second train, travelling in the opposite direction, also signalled in an effort to prevent the collision. However, despite these warnings, the tragedy unfolded.

Family members, including her daughter Alaisha, relayed that surveillance footage indicated Candelaria was wearing noise-cancelling headphones at the time of the accident. This seemingly rendered her oblivious to the approaching train. “She was waiting for one train to pass by but didn’t realise another was coming,” Alaisha recounted. “She could not hear anything due to the headphones, and that’s when the other train struck her.”

In a heartfelt statement, Union Pacific expressed its condolences and extended support to the crew involved in the incident, who, fortunately, were not injured. They emphasised the importance of pedestrian awareness around train tracks, reminding the public that distractions like loud music can have dire consequences.

Candelaria was well-known in her community, not only for her role as a loving mother but also for her joyful disposition and generous spirit. Family members described her as someone who brightened the lives of those around her. Alaisha mentioned that her mother was often active on social media, frequently sharing her running experiences, and had been livestreaming shortly before the fatal incident. “She was singing along to her favourite artist and laughing,” she said, clearly reflecting on happier moments.

Now, as the family copes with their unexpected grief, Alaisha has taken it upon herself to support her mother’s three younger children. “I’m going to be there for my siblings,” she told KSAZ-TV. “I want to help them out and ensure they are taken care of during this difficult time.”

In light of the tragedy, the local community has rallied to support Candelaria’s children by initiating a GoFundMe campaign. This effort has already raised over £10,000, aimed at assisting with daily expenses such as groceries and household bills, which will help ease the financial burden during this challenging period.

Alaisha reflected on the impact her mother had on her life and the lives of others, stating, “People have always told me throughout my life, ‘You are so lucky to have the mother that you have.’” In her eyes, Candelaria was nothing short of an angel, and the family is determined to preserve her memory and continue her legacy of love and generosity.

As this sad event serves as a reminder of the potential dangers around railroad crossings, it highlights the need for heightened awareness. Pedestrians are urged to stay vigilant and minimise distractions while near train tracks, ensuring safety for themselves and others.

The tragedy has not only left a void in the Candelaria family but has also resonated throughout the community, prompting reflections on the sheer unpredictability of life. As they navigate this profound loss, the family’s resilience and the support from their community will play vital roles in the healing process.