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Brightline passengers react to recent train deaths

Posted at 11:26 PM, Jan 21, 2018
and last updated 2018-01-22 04:27:47-05

This weekend marked an end to Brightline's first week of service. In that time three people have been hit by the high-speed train.

RELATED: Brightline outlines safety campaign | Family of man killed by train wants investigation

Two people were killed and one person was injured after police said they tried to beat the train.

Some passengers at the station, Sunday told WPTV their ride was fast and smooth. 

They also said people shouldn't try and beat the high speed train.

"It's 32 minutes and it's unbelievable," said a male passenger.

Some people riding the Brightline train on Sunday were impressed with their experience.

"I really liked it. I'm definitely going to use it again next weekend," said a female passenger.

They're aware of the three incidents surrounding the high-speed train, but they told WPTV the train is fast. 

It travels at 79 mph and they say people shouldn't try to beat it.

"I mean don't jump in front of the tracks, why would you jump in front of the tracks? Then you're going to get hit," said the female passenger.

"When you hear the train or see the train coming. Don't try to beat the train, don't try to run with the train," said the male passenger.

Brightline officials had a press conference on Friday, addressing safety concerns. They said right now they are focusing on educating the public. They said they have spent millions on upgrading rail crossings for safety, but they said they plan to do more.

"It happens and I think as it progresses there will be less incidents," said the male passenger.

Right now the train is traveling between West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Eventually service will expand to Miami and Orlando.