James Salles, a 22-year-old student from West Babylon, New York, has been identified as the pedestrian critically injured in a devastating train accident in Utica last week. James, a promising student at Utica University and former high school football athlete, is now fighting for his life after sustaining a catastrophic brain injury. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through his university, hometown, and all who knew him, sparking an outpouring of prayers, support, and financial assistance for his family during this difficult time.
The incident occurred at approximately 10 a.m. on November 15, 2024, when the Utica Police Department received an urgent call about an injured individual on the train tracks near the dead end of Bryant Street, a quiet residential street on the city’s west side. First responders, including police officers and emergency medical personnel, rushed to the scene, where they found James critically injured. He was immediately transported to Wynn Hospital for emergency treatment.
According to Lt. Michael Curley of the Utica Police Department, the circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation. Authorities have yet to determine how or why James was on the tracks at the time of the collision. While investigators are reviewing evidence and speaking to witnesses, they have urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist with the inquiry.
Bryant Street, where the accident occurred, is a short, dead-end road that intersects with the train tracks north of Oriskany Street West. While generally a quiet area, the proximity to the tracks presents inherent risks. The community has been left reeling as details about the accident and James’s condition have emerged.
James’s injuries have been described as catastrophic, with doctors confirming severe trauma to his brain. Loved ones, friends, and members of the Utica University community have gathered in prayer, holding onto hope for his recovery. His parents, Maryanne and Frank, along with his brother Frankie and extended family, have remained by his side at the hospital, clinging to faith and the strength of their son’s resilient spirit.
Remembering James Salles: A Life Full of Promise
James is remembered as more than just a student or athlete. Those who know him describe a young man full of kindness, determination, and an unwavering commitment to his goals. A graduate of West Babylon High School, James excelled in academics and athletics, particularly football, where he became known for his tenacity and teamwork. His “gorgeous, bashful smile,” as described by loved ones, endeared him to those around him and became a symbol of his approachable and caring nature.
At Utica University, James continued to distinguish himself as a dedicated student with aspirations for a bright future. His peers and professors alike spoke highly of his work ethic and positive attitude, qualities that reflected his upbringing and strong family values.
Despite the unimaginable pain of the current situation, James’s family has expressed gratitude for the love and support they’ve received. In a heartfelt message shared through social media, they asked the community to join them in praying for James and supporting their efforts to cover his medical expenses.
GoFundMe Campaign: A Lifeline for the Salles Family
In the wake of the accident, close family friends, including the Vandoran-Espinosa, Hancock, and Edmonds families, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help ease the financial burden on James’s family as they navigate this challenging time. The fundraiser aims to cover the mounting hospital bills, ongoing care costs, and other unexpected expenses associated with James’s fight for recovery.
The GoFundMe page, which has already garnered significant attention, reads:
“As many of you have heard, James sustained a catastrophic brain injury while attending college. He is currently in critical condition, facing the most difficult battle of his life. Those who know James understand his strength, resilience, and fighting spirit. We’ve seen him be a powerhouse on the football field, and we know he still has that fight. But he is more than just an athlete; he is a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend to many who cherish and respect him. We hope to see his gorgeous, bashful smile again soon.”
The organizers emphasized the importance of community support, stating:
“We ask you to join us in praying for James, asking God to place His healing hands on him and to wrap His loving arms around his parents, Maryanne and Frank, his brother Frankie, and his extended family. They need comfort and strength as they stay by his side in this unimaginably difficult time. No donation is too small, and every bit of support counts.”
Within hours of its creation, the campaign began to see an overwhelming response, with donations pouring in from friends, classmates, and even strangers moved by James’s story. Messages of hope, encouragement, and solidarity accompanied each contribution, painting a picture of a community united in its desire to see James recover.
A Community United
The impact of James’s story has extended far beyond the borders of West Babylon and Utica. Across social media platforms, individuals from various walks of life have shared their own reflections and prayers for James and his family. Many have noted the strength and grace displayed by his parents, who have remained unwavering in their support for their son despite the heart-wrenching circumstances.
Local businesses and organizations in both West Babylon and Utica have also rallied around the Salles family. Fundraisers, prayer vigils, and awareness campaigns have been organized to keep James’s story at the forefront of community consciousness. At Utica University, students and faculty have come together to support one another, drawing strength from their shared love and admiration for James.
The Path Forward
As James remains hospitalized, his family, friends, and the broader community continue to hold out hope for a miracle. His case underscores the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. While the road ahead is uncertain, the strength of the Salles family, combined with the overwhelming support they’ve received, offers a beacon of hope in the face of adversity.
The GoFundMe campaign remains active, with organizers encouraging those who can to contribute or share the link to amplify its reach. For updates on James’s condition and ways to support the family, the community is encouraged to follow the campaign and stay connected through local news outlets.
Final Thoughts
In times of tragedy, stories like James’s remind us of the power of community and the resilience of the human spirit. As the investigation into the accident continues and James fights for his life, the love and support of those around him serve as a testament to the impact one person can have on so many lives.
Though the outcome remains uncertain, one thing is clear: James Salles has touched countless hearts, and his story will continue to inspire hope, unity, and compassion in the days to come.
