Easley Police officer struck, killed by train
Image: Kershaw Police Department
Image: Kershaw Police Department
Easley, SC (WOLO) — An Easly Police officer is dead after authorities say he was struck by a train while trying to save a someone else. According to authorities, around 5 a.m. Wednesday morning the Police Department says they got a call asking for officers to check on a person going through a mental health crisis.
Police tell us two Easley officers responded to the scene and around 6 a.m. were able to locate the person on the railroad tracks near the 2000 block of East Main Street. While trying to remove the person from the tracks officials say Officer Matthew Hare was struck and killed by an oncoming train. The officer assisting Hare, and the person he was able to move from the path of the train both survived. The individual who has not been identified was taken into custody.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has been requested to lead a death investigation. The Easley Police Department says they will cooperate fully as SLED looks further into the death. Authorities released a brief statement about the tragic accident saying,
Officer Hare died saving the life of someone he did not know. He was called to protect and serve and that is exactly what he did every day. He is a HERO.
This loss is incredibly difficult for The Easley Police Department and our community. A patrol car has been placed in front of the Easley Police Department in honor of Officer Hare and we encourage community members to visit and pay their respects. Please keep this officer’s family and the Easley Police Department in your thoughts and prayers.Image: Kershaw Co. Sheriff’s Office
Image: Kershaw Co. Sheriff's Office
The Department has placed one of their police cruisers in front of their headquarters (220 NW Main Street, Easley , SC) for members of the community wanting to come by and pay their respects.
