Nun visiting from Africa fatally struck by Metra train in Highwood

(HIGHWOOD) A woman fatally struck by a Metra Union Pacific/North Line train Tuesday morning in the north suburbs has been identified as a visiting nun from Africa, authorities siad.

Inbound train No. 326, scheduled to arrive in Chicago at 8:49 a.m., struck a pedestrian near the Highwood station just before 8 a.m., according to Metra spokesman Tom Miller.

Lake County Coroner Thomas Rudd identified the victim as 68-year-old Udochukwu Odoemena.

She was taken to Highland Park Hospital, where she was died of “mutliple traumatic injuries,” Rudd said. The manner of death was not yet known Tuesday afternoon.

According to Odoemena’s Facebook page, was retired and living in Highwood. It said she originally from Nigeria and had studied in Ireland.

Highwood police could not immediately comment Tuesday afternoon.

Highwood Mayor Charlie Pecaro released a statement, saying, “It’s a sad day for the City. We send our condolences to anyone affected by this accident.

“The City Manager and Police Chief are working together with City of Highwood staff to ensure continued security at the Highwood Metra train station,” the statement said.