Hoffman Estates student killed at Illinois State

An Illinois State University student from Hoffman Estates was killed Wednesday after being struck by a train while walking across train tracks in downstate Normal.

David Jordan Hirsch, 20, a third-year special education major was struck at about 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at a train crossing at the intersection of University and Beaufort streets.

The McLean County coroner's office determined Thursday that Hirsch's death was the result of multiple injuries. Toxicology tests have been ordered and an inquest will be scheduled at a later date.

The Normal Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident in conjunction with the coroner's office.

Police officers called to the scene found Hirsch lying on the south side of the tracks.

Witnesses told police that Hirsch had been walking north on University Street when he was struck by the passing train. According to them, the crossing arms were down and the lights were functioning properly at the time.

Paramedics took Hirsch to BroMenn Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 2:58 p.m. Wednesday.

ISU President Al Bowman said the Division of Student Affairs Critical Incident Response Team immediately offered counseling and other services to Hirsch's roommates Wednesday.

"Our hearts go out to David's family and friends, and I know they will be uppermost in our thoughts," Bowman said in a prepared statement.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 195 N. Buffalo Grove Road in Buffalo Grove.