In the early hours of Tuesday, May 27, 2025, a vibrant young life was tragically cut short in Summit, New Jersey, when 19-year-old Dylan Faulkner was fatally struck by an NJ Transit train near Summit Station. The incident, which occurred around 1:28 a.m. at the intersection of Broad and Elm Streets, has left the tight-knit community of Summit reeling, mourning the loss of a promising young man whose future was brimming with potential. Faulkner, a 2024 graduate of Summit High School and a member of the school’s varsity lacrosse team, was remembered by friends, family, and teammates as a dedicated athlete and a kind-hearted individual whose presence lit up those around him.
The tragedy unfolded as Morris and Essex Line train 6907, which had departed New York Penn Station at 12:34 a.m. en route to Dover, approached Summit Station. According to NJ Transit officials, Faulkner was on the tracks at the time of the incident, though he was not authorized to be there. The train, carrying approximately 50 passengers and crew members, struck him, resulting in his immediate death at the scene. Authorities confirmed that no passengers or crew members were injured, but the emotional weight of the event has reverberated far beyond the tracks, touching the lives of those who knew Faulkner and the broader Summit community.
NJ Transit Police have taken the lead in investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, working to piece together why Faulkner was on the tracks in the early morning hours. While details remain limited as the investigation continues, officials have stated that the incident caused a temporary suspension of service on the Morris and Essex Line, disrupting travel for commuters as crews responded to the scene. The community, meanwhile, has been left grappling with questions and sorrow, seeking to understand how such a tragedy could occur.
Dylan Faulkner’s life, though brief, was marked by his passion for lacrosse and his deep ties to Summit. As a member of the Summit High School varsity lacrosse team, he was known for his athletic prowess and team spirit. Friends and coaches described him as a hardworking player who brought energy and camaraderie to practices and games. Beyond the field, Faulkner was remembered for his warm personality and ability to connect with others, leaving a lasting impression on those who crossed his path. His high school biography highlighted his contributions to the team, but those who knew him personally spoke of a young man with dreams and ambitions, poised to make his mark on the world.
The loss of such a young life has sparked an outpouring of grief in Summit, a community known for its close bonds and support for one another. Local residents have taken to social media to express their condolences, sharing memories of Faulkner and offering support to his family. Summit High School, where Faulkner was a recent graduate, has made counseling services available to students and staff as they process the tragedy. The incident has also prompted renewed discussions about rail safety in the area, with some community members calling for increased awareness and measures to prevent unauthorized access to train tracks.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the exact sequence of events that led to Faulkner’s death. For now, the focus remains on honoring his memory and supporting those he left behind. The Summit community, united in grief, is coming together to celebrate the life of a young man whose light, though extinguished too soon, will continue to shine in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
