Train Clips Teen as She Jumps Off Tracks

A 16-year-old Los Angeles girl escaped serious injury when she was clipped by an Amtrak train Sunday morning near Emma Wood State Beach.

Police said the girl was walking on the tracks near the popular camping and surfing spot, and was facing away from the northbound train as it rounded a blind curve about 11:30 a.m.

The engineer sounded the horn, and bystanders yelled to the girl, said California Highway Patrol Sgt. Mike Cooper. She jumped off the tracks, but was still grazed by the Seattle-bound train, which was traveling around 55 mph.

She landed about 17 feet from the tracks and sustained moderate injuries, including a skull fracture.

She was airlifted to Ventura County Medical Center, where she was listed in stable condition.

A hospital spokeswoman said the girl was alert and talking Sunday afternoon.