Nationwide — Sonja Celius, an African American mother of 3 from Phoenix, Arizona, was struck by a train on April 25 while visiting from Nevada. She suffered severe, life-threatening injuries and had both legs amputated. She remains hospitalized as she continues to fight for her recovery.
Her daughter, Kayla, said the family was devastated when they received the news. She described the moment as overwhelming and emotionally crushing. She said, “Honestly, probably one of the most traumatizing pieces of news to receive in my life.”
According to WLBT, police secured the area near 27th Avenue and Thomas Road in Phoenix for several hours after the collision. Investigators taped off the rail crossing and worked on-site to piece together what led to the accident.
Emergency responders rushed Celius to the hospital in critical condition. Doctors later amputated both of her legs due to the extent of her injuries, which the family said were catastrophic.
The accident happened in broad daylight, but authorities have not confirmed how Celius ended up on the tracks. Phoenix police said the investigation is still ongoing. The rail crossing involved has also been flagged in the past for safety concerns, with city and federal reports pointing to it as a high-risk area that may need upgrades.
Celius is a mother of three, with her youngest child now 16 years old. Her family said she is expected to survive, but her recovery will be long and painful.
Kayla said the past days have been filled with shock and grief as the family stays by her side. She added that accepting what happened has been especially difficult.
“She’s a walking miracle, but it is so devastating to know that my mother will never walk again,” she said.
The family has launched a GoFundMe to help support Celius and her children during her recovery. It has so far raised over $4,500.