Memorial grows in Burlington where teen bicyclist was killed by train

BURLINGTON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Throughout the day Monday, friends and neighbors placed flowers and candles along the stretch of railroad where 16-year-old Jack Meyers died one day earlier.

Burlington police said Meyers was riding his bike east on Adams Street shortly after 12:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon when the railroad warning signals came on for the crossing near Bridge Street. Police said Meyers tried to beat the train but did not. First responders found the teen dead underneath the train.

Police said the investigation was still ongoing, with assistance from the Racine County Sheriff's Office, the Wisconsin State Patrol and the Canadian National Police Department.

Among those adding to the memorial Monday was a man named Jonah, who declined to give his last name because he wanted to be as respectful as possible to the Meyers family. Jonah said he lived in the same apartment building Jack did. 

Jonah said while he didn't know Meyers or family well, he wanted to be there for the relatives.

"I just feel compelled to do what I can," Jonah said. "And if I can do more, I'm going to do more."

A woman who identified herself as one of Meyers' relatives declined an interview near the scene Monday; she said the grief was still too raw for the family.

She added once the family has had more time to process its loss, relatives hope to eventually be part of a conversation about ways to possibly make the crossing safer. 

In some ways, business went on as usual Monday. Freight trains rolled past the memorial. Students were back in class at Burlington High School. 

At the school, Julie Thomas, communications director for the Burlington Area School District, said counselors were on hand for both students and faculty. Julie Thomas added some of the school's staff has been in touch with Meyers' family.

"We offer our heartfelt condolences to the student’s family and friends. Jack will be remembered for always looking for a laugh," a statement from the school district read. "He wanted to see other people happy. He often asked, 'How can I help this person?' His kindness will be missed."

The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa declined an interview Monday, but confirmed Meyers was an employee there.

Burlington Mayor Jeannie Hefty said in a statement the community was there to support Meyers' family.

"We also need to support those who may have witnessed the loss," Hefty said. "Including the first responders and the conductor of Canadian National, as well as Jack’s friends and the school staff who are supporting so many students in grief."

At the scene Monday, that sense of community was apparent.

"You know, every little bit of support and love makes such a big impact," Jonah said.

A relative of Meyers said people who want to want to donate to the family can do so here.