The promising life of Grace Bentkowski, a NewsNation journalist, was tragically cut short at the age of 22 when she was struck by a train in Chicago.
At a Glance
- Grace Bentkowski, a 22-year-old journalist for NewsNation, was fatally struck by a train.
- The accident occurred at Hegewisch South Shore station on July 25.
- Her family is advocating for improved safety conditions at the station.
- Bentkowski was a recent Ball State University graduate and a rising star in journalism.
The Incident
Grace Bentkowski, a 22-year-old journalist with NewsNation, tragically died after being struck by a train in Chicago. The incident occurred on July 25 at the Hegewisch South Shore station.
Bentkowski had just disembarked from one train and was crossing the ground-level tracks with other commuters when she was struck by another train. Eyewitness reports indicate that the train did not sound its whistle, and her view was obstructed by a concrete pillar.
NewsNation Journalist Grace Bentkowski Killed By Train, Was 22 https://t.co/Z2SCZmpv57
— Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) August 15, 2024
Professional and Personal Life
Bentkowski graduated from Ball State University and had recently started working as a creative producer for NewsNation. She had previously interned for the network and was known for her passion for journalism from a young age.
“‘Grace Bentkowski was a rising star at NewsNation,’ the network said in a statement issued today. Her passion for journalism and eagerness to learn the ropes was infectious and her willingness to jump in and learn the TV news business was inspiring to her colleagues.”
Family’s Efforts for Change
Phil Bentkowski, Grace’s father, reviewed footage and noted that the train did not sound its whistle and that a concrete pillar obstructed her view. The family is advocating for improved safety conditions at the Hegewisch South Shore station, highlighting the need for warning signs and better communication. They have hired lawyers to investigate the incident.
Her brother Adian launched a GoFundMe page to raise funds for her cremation and other expenses, successfully raising over $27,000. The Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District is currently installing warning signage and has committed to sound warning whistles at crossings.
“‘She was beautiful inside and out,’ Grace Bentkowski’s grandmother said following her death at Chicago’s Hegewisch South Shore station last month.”
Sources
1. TV Producer, 22, Killed by Train in Chicago: ‘Worst Nightmare Ever’
2. Grace Bentkowski Dies In Train Accident: NewsNation Journalist Was 22
