One day after a bicyclist was killed in what transportation authorities described as a “tragic” collision with a MAX train in southeast Portland, officials are now identifying the person who was killed in the collision of the two vehicles.
According to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Michael O’Callaghan passed away on Wednesday afternoon after being struck by a MAX Orange Line train. This information was confirmed by the Medical Examiner. KOIN 6 News was informed of this information.
In addition to being homeless, O’Callaghan had previously run for the position of mayor of Portland. On the website for his campaign, it is stated that he has been involved in advocacy for decades. His involvement in advocacy has included organizing campaigns to feed the hungry and fighting back against an ordinance in Portland that prohibits camping.
TriMet issued the following statement regarding the incident, which was released by a spokesperson:
At approximately 1:37 p.m. today, a MAX Orange Line train was traveling through the rail crossing at Southeast 8th Avenue and Division Street. At that time, a person who was riding a bicycle entered the crossing and was struck by the train, resulting in their death. It is a terrible tragedy and a very challenging circumstance for everyone who is involved in this situation. The cyclist, our operator, and anyone else who witnessed the incident are all in our thoughts at this precise moment. At this time, the collision is being investigated. During our mission to respond to the scene, TriMet is collaborating closely with the authorities. At this time, there is a disruption in the service of the MAX Orange Line. Shuttle buses are providing service to stations between Lincoln Street and Southwest Third Avenue and Clinton Street and Southeast Twelveth Avenue.
The following statement was issued by a spokesperson for the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office regarding the incident which occurred:
According to the findings of the investigation conducted by the Transit Police Unit, the cyclist was traveling northbound on SE 8th Avenue when he came into contact with the railroad crossing arms that were lowered and traffic. In the process of crossing the railroad tracks, the cyclist was struck by a MAX train that was heading in the direction of Milwaukie. The cyclist had ridden his bike into the opposing southbound lanes of travel, where there are no crossing arms.
