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Brooke Walker ReportingA man fell from a TRAX platform this afternoon, right into the path of an oncoming train.
The accident happened at the Milcreek Station near 33rd South. It could have easily been a fatal fall.
The man apparently lost his balance and landed between two cars, just as the train started to pull out.
For nearly 40 minutes, the 54-year-old victim remained tightly trapped between the train and a cement wall. But while stuck in the small space, he remained alert and talking.
Sgt. Dwayne Ruth/ South Salt Lake Police Dept.: "I mean, he was trapped under a train. But for being trapped under a train, he didn't look too uncomfortable."
Authorities are trying to figure out what caused the man to fall. They say he had a bike with him at the time, and it could have been a factor.
Regardless, both police and UTA officials say the man is alive partly because of a train driver's quick response.
Justin Jones/ Spokesperson, Utah Transit Authority: "He was looking in the mirror. He actually saw the victim fall between the two cars. He immediately stopped the train. Fortunately that's what saved this person's life."
Sgt. Dwayne Ruth: "Boy I'll tell you what, for being trapped under a train and being concious and alert, he is pretty fortunate."
The victim was flown to the University of Utah Hospital in fair condition.
