Auto Passenger Dies in Train Collision

A 45-year-old Simi Valley woman was killed Sunday when her husband, driving their Ford Bronco, failed to stop at the railroad tracks near the Metrolink station in Simi and a train struck the vehicle, authorities said.

Elvia Gutierrez was pronounced dead at Simi Valley Hospital shortly after 11 a.m., Simi Valley police said. Her husband, Elias, sustained bruises and lacerations to his arms, hands, forehead and chest, and was in stable condition, a nursing supervisor said.

The accident occurred when the Gutierrez vehicle crossed the tracks on a private road east of the station and was struck broadside by the train. The Bronco flipped over, and Elias Gutierrez, who was not wearing a seat belt, was ejected from the passenger’s window, authorities said.

Elvia Gutierrez, who was wearing a seat belt, remained in the Bronco while it came to rest on its left side in a grassy area. A passerby tried to resuscitate her before authorities arrived.