Photo by Kyle Parmley.
On Monday, Feb. 12, a Chelsea High School senior was reportedly hit and killed by a train on Highway 11.
Authorities have identified the individual who was hit and killed by a train on Monday night as 17-year-old Chelsea resident Hunter Jones.
Shelby County Sheriff's Office issued a release on Monday night, stating that a pedestrian had been hit by a train and killed. Roads were closed beginning at 10 p.m., according to the release, and traffic was rerouted. The incident occurred on Highway 11 near Belcher Road in Chelsea.
The victim was identified Tuesday afternoon as Jones.
Around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Chelsea High School Principal Wayne Trucks posted a note to the "Chelsea family" regarding Jones' death.
"We are saddened to receive news this morning of the death of Hunter Jones, a 12th grader at Chelsea High School," the post said. "This has been a difficult day for our students, faculty and staff."
Students were informed of Jones' death, the post continued, and counselors were available throughout the day.
"Hunter’s death may bring up many questions for our students about life, death and grieving. As you are aware, we are a small, close community; therefore, this loss impacts all of us, even those who may not have been close to Hunter," the post said. "The passing of a peer often brings varied reactions from children. Any reaction is normal in the grief process and can range from withdrawal to crying and/or anger. We encourage you to openly discuss with your child their reactions and feelings regarding the death of Hunter Jones. Please assure them these symptoms are normal. However, if they persist or become intense, please inform your child’s teacher or our school counselors."
According to a post on the CHS Theatre Boosters' Facebook page, a prayer meeting in honor of Jones was planned for Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Liberty Baptist Church. Student Pastor Matt Adams of Liberty Baptist Church said the prayer meeting is a night for students to be together, talk and pray with each other, and there will be adults available for the students to talk with.
"Our hearts and prayers go out to the family of Hunter Jones. Hunter was a very special guy and will be sorely missed," read a CHS Theatre Boosters post.
Liberty Baptist Church is located at 11050 Chelsea Road, and the prayer meeting will be held in the church's worship center.