A memorial has been established at Sinaloa Middle School in Simi Valley, California, to honour the memory of a 13-year-old boy who tragically lost his life after being struck by a train. Reis Beck, well-regarded by both classmates and friends, is being remembered for his kindness and competitive spirit.
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The incident occurred on 25 April when Reis was riding an electric bike southbound along the east sidewalk of Sequoia Avenue. At the crossing with Los Angeles Avenue, he was involved in a collision with a passing train. Preliminary investigations by the Simi Valley Police Department indicate that the teenager failed to stop at the crossing and was subsequently hit by the train. Emergency responders were called to the scene; however, despite their best efforts, he passed away as a result of his injuries.
The local authorities expressed their condolences regarding this devastating incident. A spokesperson from the Simi Valley Police stated, “This is a heartbreaking loss for the Simi Valley community, and our thoughts are with the family, friends, and classmates affected by this tragedy.” They also took the opportunity to remind all riders about the importance of being vigilant near railroad crossings and adhering to safety signals.
Reis Beck was a vibrant member of the Simi Youth Baseball league, and his father, Landon Beck, spoke about his son’s personality during an interview with KTLA. Landon described Reis as fiercely competitive and emotionally perceptive, stating, “He was rough. He played rough; he loved sports, he loved competition. However, he, like all of our boys, also had a sensitive side — he had an intuition and an ability to read feelings.” Landon recalled a recent moment when Reis sensed his father’s stress and empathetically expressed, “Dad I know you’re so stressed right now so I don’t want to bog you down with helping me with my bike.”
Following Reis’s passing, Simi Youth Baseball shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, reflecting on the boy’s character and impact. “Reis was more than a talented ballplayer — he was a beloved son, a brother, a teammate, and a true friend to so many,” the organisation posted. They noted that his passion for the game shone through every time he stepped onto the field, yet it was his kindness and infectious smile that truly set him apart. The organisation expressed their collective grief, emphasising that there are simply “no words that can fully express the heartbreak of losing someone so young, with so much life ahead of him.”
A memorial has been created at Sinaloa Middle School, where students and friends are encouraged to share their favourite memories of Reis. Emotional tributes are appearing on the memorial, encapsulating the love and respect felt for the young boy, highlighting the profound impact he had on those around him.
In an effort to support the Beck family during this incredibly difficult time, a GoFundMe page has been launched by a community member. The fundraising initiative aims to assist the family in the wake of their tragic loss, and the organisers have requested privacy while they process their grief. The community has united, demonstrating not only its grief over this loss but also its desire to support the family in any way possible.
As the Simi Valley community comes to terms with this immense loss, friends, classmates, and family members are left to carry on Reis’s memory. His competitive spirit and compassionate nature will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who knew him, ensuring that his legacy endures long after his untimely departure. The tragedy serves as a harsh reminder of the importance of safety near railway crossings and the fragility of life, particularly for those so young.