Morning Journal file/Patti Schaeffer An American Standard worker was killed at this crossing near the plant.

Editor’s note

This story was voted the No. 3 story of the year by the Morning Journal news staff.

LISBON — Communities in the county mourned the loss of a high school student and a plant worker in train accidents this year.

The deaths occurred on railroad tracks in East Palestine and Salem.

East Palestine High School student Ethan Ferguson, 16, had just transferred to the district from Wellsville.

He was attempting to cross the tracks between the North Pleasant and James Street crossing when he was struck by an eastbound train on March 6.

Authorities have said the death appeared to be accidental.

Both East Palestine and the Wellsville community and school districts showed support for grieving family and friends following the accident.

According to his obituary, Ferguson was heavily involved in sports at Wellsville, serving on both the football and track and field teams, was a weightlifter and involved in the choir.

In Salem, Frank Leasure, 62, of Carrollton had just finished his night shift at American Standard and was attempting to cross the Norfolk and Southern train tracks at New Garden Avenue when he was struck on Oct. 31.

Police said that Leasure walked between the lowered crossing gates and waited for the westbound train to pass before crossing but was struck by an eastbound train that was going through at the same time that he apparently didn’t see.

It is believed he was going to his car in the company parking lot.

kwhite@mojonews.com