Injured serviceman says there was no attack

A naval serviceman whose arm was severed by a Metra train Sunday has changed his story, now saying his injury was caused by an accident.

Brandon M. Garrison, 20, of Red Bluff, Calif., originally told authorities he was attacked and robbed by two men that night on the Sheridan Road Bike Path.

Garrison said that during the attack, he was choked unconscious, then dragged onto the railroad tracks where he was struck by a passing train.

On Monday, Lake Bluff Police Chief William Gallagher said Garrison's account did not match physical evidence collected at the scene.

Garrison admitted late Monday he was struck while he was too close to the tracks as the train passed.

"I think he had just been through a traumatic experience and was very scared," said Lake Bluff deputy police chief David Belmonte. "He didn't want to get in trouble for being on the tracks."

After the accident, Garrison reportedly made a tourniquet and carried his right arm a half mile back to Great Lakes Naval Training Center where he was stationed.

Garrison was transferred by helicopter to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. Doctors were unable to reattach his arm.

On Tuesday, Garrison was listed in stable condition.

Belmonte said initial results showed Garrison didn't have any drugs or alcohol in his system.

Garrison will not be issued a citation for lying to police.

"I think he has been through enough," Belmonte said.

Ken Crank, spokesman for Great Lakes Naval Center said he wouldn't speculate on any disciplinary action that might be taken at the base.