On May 17, 2018 at around 8:20 pm the Town of Schodack Police Department responded to the report of a pedestrian struck by a train at the Scott Avenue Amtrak crossing in the Village of Castleton-on-Hudson. This crossing is near the intersection of Scott Avenue and South Main Street. A preliminary investigation indicates that Thomas J. Brust, 27, of Mechanicville, NY was crossing the Amtrak railroad tracks at this location and was struck by a northbound Amtrak passenger train. Tragically, Mr. Brust was killed in the collision. No passengers or crew on-board the Amtrak train were injured. Many people use the Scott Avenue crossing to access the Hudson River via a small park owned by the Village of Castleton-on-Hudson. This park is on the river-side of the Amtrak rails. We received clarification of the trespassing issue with regards to this crossing. Originally it was reported that it is not trespassing to cross here. According to the Federal Railroad Administration this crossing is a “closed” crossing which means that people are not allowed to cross here and that those who do cross here are trespassing. Over the years many people have used this crossing to access the river. It should be noted however that crossing in this location is considered trespassing. The Schodack Police Department is working closely with Amtrak Police to conclude this investigation. New York State Police, Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office, Castleton Volunteer Fire Department, Schodack Valley Fire Department, and Castleton Volunteer Ambulance Squad assisted Schodack and Amtrak Police at the scene. More information will be released as the investigation unfolds.