Elderly overseas tourist dead after being struck by coastal train in South Australia

An elderly tourist has died after he was struck by a packed train on a popular coastal line, south of Adelaide.

About 3.20pm on Thursday, emergency services were called to Hayward St in McCracken, just north of Victor Harbor, after a pedestrian was struck by the iconic Cockle Train.

The 87-year-old male overseas tourist died at the scene.

Victor Harbor Mayor Moira Jenkins described the incident as an “absolute tragedy” and said her thoughts were with all those impacted by it.

“Our thoughts, prayers and sincere condolences go out to this person’s family,” she said.

“Our thoughts are also with the driver of the Steam Ranger and all those involved in the incident.”

The train driver was transported to hospital after suffering shock and is now assisting police with their inquiries.

Some passengers seated at the back of the train witnessed the horrific crash, with one describing some passengers as “quite distressed”.

Mark Robinson, 40, told The Advertiser that it looked like the man had been trying to cross the tracks when he was hit.

“It looks like someone’s been hit and they’ve been flung under the train or to the side and landed at the back of the train,” Mr Robinson said.

“We looked out our window and saw a white sheet at the back of the train.”At least 150 passengers on-board the train were taken from the scene in buses and transported to their stop along the train’s usual route.

Anyone who witnessed the incident but has not yet spoken to police can provide their details via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

The 170-year-old Cockle Train is popular among tourists and travellers along the oldest steel railway in Australia.