Fundraiser launched for 26-year-old killed by train

A fundraiser has been launched to cover the funeral expenses for a 26-year-old man struck and killed by a train in Russell County October 8, 2026.

The brother of John Newman shared that “Everybody who knew and loved John is devastated by this loss. He had the biggest heart out of anybody I knew, and he always put everybody else before himself. Losing him has left our family grieving, and we are now facing the difficult task of planning how to honor his life.”

Elijah Newman said the funds raised will cover the cost of a funeral and celebration of life. “My family does not have a lot of money, and we have not been able to begin planning because of that.” You can donate to the GoFundMe account here: Fundraiser by Elijah Newman : John Newman’s Funeral and Celebration of life

John Newman was struck and killed by an oncoming train in Russell County late Thursday night. According to the Russell County Sheriff’s Office they received a call at approximately 9:57pm in reference to an accident with possible injuries in the area of Owens Road and Registry Way.

Upon arrival the deputies discovered the victim deceased on the train tracks. It was determined he had been on the train tracks as a train was coming through.  The conductors observed the individual on the tracks and made attempts to stop the train but were unable to stop in time.

The incident remains under investigation by the Russell County Sheriff’s Office.