Chatsworth and Simi Valley to commemorate Metrolink crash victims
A year after the devastating Chatsworth Metrolink crash killed 25 people and injured 135 others, the neighboring community, survivors and victims’ relatives will gather this morning for a memorial service to mark the anniversary.
Every week, mourners visit the collision site, where dozens of local residents joined rescue crews and helped pull bodies from the mangled train. They pray, replace flowers, candles, photos and leave behind heartfelt notes along the tracks.
Today, a plaque honoring the victims and rescuers will be placed on the north end of Stoney Point Park, which overlooks the crash site.
The memorial will begin at 9:30 a.m. on the south end of the park. Those wishing to attend must arrive no later than 9:15 a.m. at the Church at Rocky Peak, 22601 Santa Susana Pass Road in Chatsworth. Attendees will be shuttled to the event.
Along with benedictions, there will be a helicopter fly-over, a bagpipe player and a release of 25 white doves. Those affected by the crash will present roses as tribute to the victims.
“This is an opportunity to reflect back on this tragic event that really touched and traumatized the whole community,” said Matt Myerhoff, spokesman for L.A. Councilman Greig Smith. “This event will really move a lot of people.”
For more information, call Smith’s office 818-756-8501.
A second commemoration will take place in Simi Valley at 4 p.m. at the Simi Valley rail station, 5050 Los Angeles Ave. The event will be held at a memorial plaza with benches that was recently completed to remember the victims of the crash. Ten Simi Valley residents were killed.
“This was envisioned and created as a result of the community wanting to do something,” said Laura Behjan, Simi Valley assistant city manager. “They want victims to know they are supported and cared about.”
--Esmeralda Bermudez
Photo: Four days after the crash, flowers greet the first running of Metrolink 111 to the Simi Valley station. Credit: Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times
