Train Hits, Kills 17-Year-Old in Barrow County

Authorities report a 17-year-old Statham resident was killed Saturday morning by a train in Barrow County.

According to police, Joshua Gene Whitten was walking on the tracks in the direction of Winder when he was struck and killed by a train going in the same direction.

Police report that the train's operator used his warning systems and was in the process of braking when the train hit Whitten, who reportedly never moved from the tracks before being hit.

There is a possibility that Whitten had a musical device with him and may not have heard the train coming, according to authorities.