Philadelphia

SEPTA Train Strikes, Kills University of Pennsylvania Student

Friends and family mourned a University of Pennsylvania student struck and killed by a SEPTA train Monday morning.

An eastbound Market-Frankford Line subway struck Ao "Olivia" Kong at the 40th Street Station along Market Street in West Philadelphia around 7 a.m.

Kong, 21, did not appear to be pushed nor did it appear she fell onto the tracks, said SEPTA. Police told NBC10 they believe she jumped onto the tracks. The train came to a screeching halt after she was struck.

"The conductor told everyone to move to the front of the train... we heard someone say 'I couldn't stop fast enough,'" said passenger Anthony Davis.

Davis said he also overheard workers saying there was a body under the train. Kong died at the scene from her injuries.

Kong grew up in Philadelphia and graduated from Central High School before attending the University of Pennsylvania. She learned finance in the Wharton School's Cohort Peso. She was also a member of the Phi Gamma Nu business fraternity and the Alpha Phi Omega co-ed service fraternity. She was set to graduate in 2017.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Olivia's family and friends," wrote Wharton's Vice Dean Lori Rosenkopf. "A gathering of sharing and support will take place today at 5 p.m. in Huntsman Hall Room 250." 

Students are encouraged to call Penn's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at 215-898-7021, Wharton Undergraduate Division Advising at 215-898-7608, the University Chaplain's Office at 215-898-8456 or the Student Health Service at 215-746-3535.

SEPTA service was delayed for nearly three hours after the incident but later resumed to normal operations.


SUICIDE PREVENTION HELP: The National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8255) is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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