Altoona, PA Railroad Yard Train Accident, Jan 1904

KILLED IN THE YARD
Engineer Patrick Hughes Thrown From His cab Against Picket Fence Because of Faulty Switch

Patrick Hughes, one of the oldest engineers in point of service in the employ of the Pennsylvania railroad in this city, was killed at 12:05 this afternoon in the yard at Fourth street. He lived but a few minutes after the accident, the blame for which is yet undetermined.

Mr. Hughes, who was 63 years old, and lived at 1703 Third avenue, was running engine No. 1507 down the yard at the time mentioned and had a straight track ahead. At Fourth street a car had been shifted on a switch for the Hoster Brewing company, but had not entirely cleared the switch. Hughes’ engine, which was drawing several freight cars, die not keep the track, but picked the switch and crashed into the rear of the car.

The end of the car and the forepart of the engine were demolished. Mr. Hughes was thrown from his cab against the sharp picket fence, adjoining the track, and his skull was fractured. The back of his head was crushed and he never recovered consciousness, dying a few minutes after the accident.

Brakemen Smith and Lindemuth were on the engine, and while the former escaped injury the latter suffered several severe lacerations which he had dressed at home.

The remains were turned over to Undertaker Thomas J. Lynch for interment. The dead man is survived by a wife, three sons and one daughter.

The funeral arrangements have not yet been determined.

Altoona Mirror, Altoona, PA 29 Jan 1904
__________________

Transcribed by Lisa. Thanks, Lisa.