Feds, state probe death of LIRR worker

Federal and state officials are investigating the death of a Long Island Rail Road train car inspector who, according to the railroad, apparently came into contact with the electrified third rail while working in the LIRR's Babylon Yard Sunday evening.

LIRR officials Monday said they could not yet explain how Russell DeCeck, a longtime railroad employee, had touched the 750-volt third rail. "Our heartfelt condolences go out to Russell's family, friends and co-workers," LIRR President Helena Williams said in a statement.

The Federal Railroad Administration and the state Public Transportation Safety Board are investigating the accident, which occurred about 6 p.m. Sunday in a rail yard in West Islip, about a mile east of the Babylon LIRR station. The railroad also is investigating DeCeck's death.

It appears there was no heavy rain or water pooling at the time of the accident, officials said.

LIRR officials Monday described DeCeck, 48, of Coram, as a dedicated employee who checked train cars to ensure they met federal standards. DeCeck, who was married and had two children, had worked at the railroad for 28 years, LIRR spokesman Sam Zambuto said.

"He was passionate about his job," said Michael Gelormino, the railroad's chief mechanical officer. "You could tell how much he enjoyed doing what he was doing. Everybody loved the guy. He was one of those genuine, real people; had a good sense of humor. He was a good human being."

DeCeck's father worked for the LIRR as an engineer; his brother-in-law also works for the rail road, officials said.

Sunday's accident was the first on-the-job death since 2007, when a 50-year-old foreman supervising track repairs between Valley Stream and Rosedale was struck by a train.