An SUV driver was charged with reckless homicide after colliding with a Metra Electric Line train in South Chicago last week, killing one of his passengers and critically injuring two others.
Moises Perez, 19, was charged with reckless homicide, aggravated DUI causing death, aggravated DUI causing great bodily harm, driving without a license and disobeying a railroad crossing, Metra officials said in a news release.
Perez and three passengers were in a sport utility vehicle at the 87th Street crossing on the Metra Electric Line’s South Chicago Branch when they collided with the train about 12:30 a.m. on Feb. 12, officials said.
Elissa J. Hernandez, 19, was pronounced dead at the scene and two other passengers were critically injured, Metra said. Perez was hospitalized but has been released.
An investigation determined the crossing gates were functioning and Perez disregarded the gates and lights, continuing eastbound through the crossing where the SUV was struck by a northbound train, officials said.
Perez was arraigned in Cook County Circuit Court and was ordered detained without bond. His next court appearance is March 5.