Man dies after dog leash gets caught in train doors in Washington, D.C. area
A man died after the leash of his pet dog got caught in the train doors at a station of the Metrorail, a transit service in the Washington, D.C. area.
In the latest update of its ongoing investigation, Metro Transit Police said video footage showed that a leash appeared to be tied to the person. This was caught in the door, causing the man to be dragged on the platform and onto the tracks.
The man was brought to the hospital after being struck by the train. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries.
Meanwhile, the dog was left inside the train car with no ID. Police said the pet, which is now under its care, does not appear to be a service animal.
"Our thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of the deceased," Metro Transit Police said.
The fatal incident took place around 450 feet (approximately 137 meters) away from the operator cab.
"The train operator performed two safe door checks before moving the train. The deceased cleared the train and was on the platform away from the car," police said.
Riding smart
The Metrorail's website displays a list of Metro rules and manners for "riding smart."
These are general dos and don'ts for boarding the train and riding escalators, along with additional guidelines for parents with children. "Make sure that your child has no dangling clothing, untied shoelaces, or unbuckled shoes," reads one rule.
There are no rules concerning dogs and other pets as of writing.
In the Philippines, rarely a good example (at least until now), the Light Rail Transit Authority management recently announced that owners can finally board the LRT-2 with their pets following guidelines. Specifically, only "certain-sized" pets are allowed. These must wear a diaper and be in a cage.