HOUSTON – The Houston Independent School District (HISD) pledged continued support for the family of 15-year-old Sergio Rodriguez, a Milby High School student who was killed in a train accident and announced measures to assist grieving students and staff.
The accident happened Monday at 2000 Broadway St. near Galveston Road a little after 7:30 a.m. when officials say 15-year-old Sergio Rodriguez, a sophomore and JV football player, was walking to school and attempted to cross in front of the moving Union Pacific train.
Police said the train was traveling at a slow speed when he was hit and killed.
HISD officials extended condolences Tuesday afternoon to Sergio’s family, confirming counseling services and financial assistance, including funeral expense support and coordination.
“The district’s counseling and crisis management teams are on campus and will remain as long as needed,” HISD spokesperson Alexandria Elizondo said. “There is no time limit for the support being provided.”
Several students witnessed the fatal accident and are receiving specialized counseling. A crisis team will stay on campus indefinitely based on the principal’s evaluation of ongoing needs.
HISD was asked about the school’s tardiness policy and whether students are penalized if late. HISD emphasized that student safety takes precedence over school attendance policies. Milby High School principal Ruth Pena waives tardies if passing trains delay students.
“We would never want students to jeopardize their safety to get to school on time,” Elizondo stated. The district has hired additional police officers to monitor the area around the school during key arrival and dismissal times.
HISD noted that Union Pacific Railroad manages train schedules that are beyond the district’s control. Officials explained that the student involved in the accident crossed the tracks at a non-designated area, away from the crossing monitored by police.
Response to safety concerns
Students are regularly reminded not to cross train tracks when a train is present, and tardies due to train delays are excused.
Following the accident, Union Pacific assured HISD that the train would remain stationary until the investigation was complete. School staff, Houston Police Department (HPD), and HISD officers monitored the area to ensure student safety.
HISD’s Elizondo said the district is committed to working with local, state, and federal authorities to enhance train-related safety measures.
“Families concerned about unsafe walking routes can request bus transportation, even if they live within the two-mile eligibility radius,” Elizondo confirmed.
The district reaffirmed its dedication to student safety, ongoing support for the family, and transparency in incident management.
“We will continue working with all levels of government to address this persistent issue and ensure the safety of our students,” Elizondo said.