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Police: Man Killed By Train Was Walking On Tracks, Wearing Earbuds

HARTFORD (WWJ/AP) - Police have identified a man who was struck and killed by a train in southwestern Michigan while walking on railroad tracks.

Michigan State Police say 23-year-old Mitchell Wheeler of Hartford was wearing earbuds when he was hit by the train Monday.

According to police, Wheeler was walking west on the tracks in Van Buren County when a train headed east approached. The train operator tried to stop the train and sounded its whistle and yelled at Wheeler, but he didn't move.

State police Lt. Dale Hinz said Wheeler's death is a "tragic reminder" of the dangers of walking on railroad tracks.

TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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