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SILVER CREEK -- Silver Creek Central School is mourning the death of a student.
Keira (Koda) Beckstrom died Wednesday afternoon after being struck by a train. Just before 4 p.m. Wednesday, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office responded to an incident on the CSX railroad tracks in the village of Silver Creek. An investigation took place and the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Silver Creek Fire Department, Chautauqua County EMS and CSX personnel.
Thursday morning, Silver Creek Superintendent Dr. Katie Ralston shared a statement on behalf of the district, releasing the name of Beckstrom, an 11th-grade student. Ralston's statement was shared "with profound sadness" to announce "the tragic and unexpected death" of Beckstrom.
"Our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with Koda’s family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all those who knew and loved her," Ralston said.
Ralston continued, "A loss like this is deeply difficult for our entire school community. We recognize that students and staff may experience a wide range of emotions, including grief, sadness, confusion, and anxiety. We want our students to know that they do not have to navigate these feelings alone."
Ralston noted the district enacted a crisis response plan, including additional counselors and support staff available in the school library on Thursday "for any student who would like to talk, seek support, or simply have a safe place to be."
Families are encouraged to check in with their children throughout the day. The guidance office can be reached at (716) 934-2603, ext. 1123.
"During this incredibly difficult time, we ask that our Silver Creek community come together with compassion, care, and support for the Beckstrom family and Koda’s friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this unimaginable loss," Ralston said.