Body found in ‘track area’ along SEPTA’s Market-Frankford Line

A 21-year-old man, believed to have been struck by a SEPTA train, was found dead on the tracks of the Market-Frankford Line early Saturday morning.

The victim, whose name was being withheld pending notification of next of kin, was found between the Spring Garden and Second Street stations near Old City shortly after 3 a.m. Cause of death is still pending an autopsy, but it is believed he was struck by a train, said SEPTA spokesman Andrew Busch.

Based on review of train and station surveillance videos, no foul play is suspected, but it had not yet been established Saturday afternoon if the victim entered the track area intentionally or if he fell, the spokesman said. He appeared to have been alone.

About 70 passengers on a westbound train were evacuated safely as SEPTA and Philadelphia police as well as medics responded to the scene, according to SEPTA officials.

The body was transported to the Medical Examiner’s office. Service along the Market-Frankford Line was suspended for about two hours and restored shortly after 6 a.m.

An investigation is continuing.