The Altamont School District and Effingham County communities are mourning the loss of one of their own. Altamont High School Vice Principal and Athletic Director Todd Arnold was killed early Sunday morning. Arnold was 53 years old.

Effingham Police received a call at about 12:23 a.m. to a report that a pedestrian was hit by a train. Upon arrival, Arnold was found deceased on the scene after being struck by a southbound Amtrak train.

Jeff Fritchtnitch is the Superintendent of Altamont Schools. He says he met with faculty and staff Sunday afternoon, and counselors were on hand Monday morning for those looking for help in the grieving process.

Fritchnitch says this accident is a shock to the Effingham area.

Arnold’s funeral arrangements are still pending.