HAINES CITY, Fla. — An 11-year-old girl was killed after being struck by an Amtrak train in Haines City, Florida on Wednesday afternoon.
Polk County Sheriff's Office detectives said 11-year-old Yazmin White was walking through the woods when she attempted to cross directly over a set of railroad tracks.
The Amtrak train's conductor told deputies he blew the train's horn repeatedly while also applying the brakes, but Yazmin did not appear to hear it. He also said Yazmin was looking down at her phone while walking.
The Amtrak passenger train, with 12 passenger cars and two engines, was traveling southbound towards Winter Haven at approximately 68 mph.
Deputies said Yazmin was apparently wearing headphones at the time of the accident and was declared dead on the scene.
"We send our deepest condolences to Yazmin's family. This is a tragedy a parent or family should never have to go through. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers." said Sheriff Grady Judd.
No charges are pending.