WHEATLAND, WI — A devastating incident in Kenosha County has claimed the life of 78-year-old Leonard A. Lois, a longtime resident of Wheatland, Wisconsin. The fatal collision occurred late Friday morning, August 2, 2025, when a pickup truck was struck by a freight train at a rural railroad crossing in the town of Wheatland.

According to the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department, emergency crews responded to the scene around 11:20 a.m. following multiple 911 calls reporting a vehicle-train crash at the intersection of 306th Court and 45th Street, a location known to be marked only with railroad crossing signs and lacking active warning gates or lights.

Upon arrival, first responders found a mangled silver pickup truck pushed off the tracks, with its front end completely destroyed. Leonard A. Lois was found unresponsive inside the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities believe that Lois may have been crossing the tracks at the time the northbound freight train approached and was unable to clear the intersection in time.

The train, operated by Union Pacific, was reportedly traveling at a regulated speed and made emergency braking attempts, but the collision could not be avoided. None of the train crew members sustained injuries, and the train came to a stop several hundred yards beyond the point of impact. Railroad operations were halted for several hours as investigators worked on the scene.

Investigation Underway

The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department, in coordination with Union Pacific officials and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), has launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are reviewing train data recordings, assessing visibility issues, and considering any environmental factors that may have played a role.

“This is a tragic reminder of the importance of caution around railroad crossings, especially those without automatic gates,” said Sheriff David Beth. “Our hearts go out to Mr. Lois’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

Officials confirmed that the crossing involved in the crash is a rural one with no mechanical barriers or warning lights, a common sight in less-populated parts of Kenosha County. The FRA will assess whether safety enhancements at the location are necessary to prevent future tragedies.

Community in Mourning

Leonard A. Lois was known in the Wheatland community as a kind-hearted and dependable neighbor. Friends and family remember him as a devoted father, grandfather, and retired mechanic who enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and working on old trucks. News of his sudden passing has deeply affected the town, where he had lived for most of his life.

“Leonard was the kind of man who would drop everything to help someone in need,” said a family friend. “It’s heartbreaking that he’s gone.”

A memorial service is being planned by the family, and details will be shared with the public in the coming days.

As of now, no criminal charges are being considered, and investigators are treating the collision as a tragic accident. However, findings from the investigation may inform future safety decisions regarding rural rail crossings in the area.

Safety Reminders

This incident serves as a somber reminder for all drivers to approach railroad crossings with caution, particularly those without automated warning systems. Drivers are urged to stop, look, and listen before crossing tracks—even if no train appears to be approaching.

Authorities continue to urge residents to report any visibility issues or concerns about local crossings to both law enforcement and railroad companies to ensure safety for everyone on the road.

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