Upstate New York Student Killed in Train Incident Days Before Graduation

A community in Upstate New York is mourning the sudden death of a local high school student whose life ended in a tragic incident just before he was set to graduate.

Early Monday morning, emergency responders were called to the area of Putnam Road in Rotterdam following reports that a train had struck a pedestrian. The incident occurred at approximately 2:13am on Memorial Day. Authorities arriving on the scene discovered the victim, later identified as 18-year-old Eric Paulus, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

Paulus, a senior at Schalmont High School, had been preparing to receive his diploma in the coming weeks.

Officials have not yet released details about the events leading up to the fatal incident and an investigation is continuing.

Schalmont Central School District acknowledged the loss, describing Eric as a valued member of the school community.

"It is with the heaviest of hearts that Schalmont shares with our community that Eric Paulus, one of our seniors, passed away over the weekend. Eric was a wonderful young man and our entire Schalmont community sends our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and all who knew him in this incredibly difficult time," said the school in a release.

Grief counselors and support staff have been made available to students and staff members as they process the tragedy.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends and loved ones of Eric.

Upstate New York Student Killed in Train Incident Days Before Graduation