Keenan Paul was a registered part-time student at Fresno City College. On the first day back in class after winter break, students on campus were shocked to learn about his death, "It's really sad and devastating it happened right here by the school," said Shane Gerardo.
Paul's close friends shared fond memories of the teenager who loved skateboarding. "He was really funny and his laugh was hilarious," said Spencer Johnson.
Investigators say Paul was dropped off by his mother on the east side of the tracks on Monday. They believe she told him to wait for the oncoming train to pass. But officers say the teenager who was running late to class tried to make it across the tracks. "The conductor, engineer, saw him approach the tracks, saw begin to run -- saw him begin to stumble -- he didn't stumble to the ground, but tripped on something," said Alex Flores with the Fresno Police Department.
In a statement Fresno City College President Tony Cantu said, "Keenan Paul was about to begin his second semester today at Fresno City College and we are saddened that his life and future were cut short by this tragic accident. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."
Grief counselors will be on hand in the coming days to help students and staff members with his loss.
