James Salles, a 22-year-old student from West Babylon, New York, suffered catastrophic injuries after being struck by a train in Utica last week. The incident occurred at the end of Bryant Street, a residential dead-end on Utica’s west side, according to the Utica Police Department.
Police were alerted to the scene shortly after 10 a.m. and found an injured individual on the train tracks. Emergency responders transported James to Wynn Hospital, where he remains in critical condition due to a severe brain injury.
Investigation Ongoing
Lt. Michael Curley of the Utica Police Department reported that the circumstances leading to the accident are still under investigation. Bryant Street, where the incident occurred, runs north from Oriskany Street West and is not a heavily trafficked area, making the details of the incident unclear.
James Salles: A Beloved Athlete and Student
James is remembered as a resilient and determined young man. Known for his strength on the football field, he is described as more than an athlete—a devoted son, brother, and friend to many.
“We’ve seen him be a powerhouse on the football field, and we know he still has that fight,” his family shared. “But he is so much more—a cherished member of his family and a bright light in his community.”
GoFundMe Campaign for Medical Expenses
In response to James’s life-altering injuries, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with his mounting hospital bills. Organized by close family friends, the Vandoran-Espinosa, Hancock, and Edmonds families, the campaign seeks to ease the financial burden on James’s parents, Maryanne and Frank, and his brother Frankie.
The family shared their gratitude for the outpouring of support:
“We ask for your prayers for James and strength for his family during this unimaginably difficult time. Every donation, no matter how small, will help us give his family the freedom to focus entirely on his recovery.”
How to Support
To contribute to James’s medical fund and support his family during this challenging time, visit the GoFundMe campaign. Your donation and prayers are deeply appreciated.
Conclusion: A Community Rallies for James
James’s tragic accident has brought his family, friends, and community together in an outpouring of love and support. As the investigation into the accident continues, the focus remains on his fight for recovery.
Let us keep James and his family in our thoughts, offering prayers and assistance as they face this tremendous battle.