this is my homage to the Vyas family in my profound grief:

have you ever been close to tragedy
Or been close to folks who have?
Have you ever felt a pain so powerful
so heavy, that you collapse?

Have you ever had the odds stacked so high
you need a strength most dont possess?
has it ever come down to do or die that you had to rise above rest?
Ive never had to knock on wood
but I know someone who has
which makes me wonder if I could
it makes me wonder if I could

I ve never had to knock on wood
and Im sure I havent yet
and It surely isnt good
that's the impression that I get

IM not a coward
ive just never been tested
Id like to think that if I was
I would pass
But LOok at the tested
and think
there before the grace go I
I might be afraid of what I might find out bout myself.....

YOu are a brave soul Atul always courageous and self confident....you have shone your light on us, now dimmed but never extinguished......

— Richard family friend
about Atul Vyas
September 14, 2008 at 3:07 p.m.

Maria was such a gift at Moorpark High School, and a gift to all that met her. i am so sorry for your pain

— Lisa
September 14, 2008 at 3:06 p.m.

Our deepest condolences to Ruby, Vijay, Aseem and rest of the Vyas family. Dearst Atul is no more. The smartest, brilliant and lovable Atul will forever live in our heart and memories. GOD, Please give Ruby, Vijay and Aseem the strength and the courage to face this loss.

— Hemant Gupta
about Atul Vyas
September 14, 2008 at 3:04 p.m.

Ron worked as kindergarten teacher and counselor in Glendale for 30 years. He ran intramural sports for kids at a time when kids needed to exercise and learn how to compete the most. He balanced his work and family life well. I pray that these thoughts and warmest wishes find Jan and their two boys and their time of need.

— Miguel Ramon
September 14, 2008 at 3:01 p.m.

Aida (primita) we miss your so very much. I still remember your pretty litte smile every time you came into the bank. You were always full of energy. Remember how you use to ask me for advice about your hair. Always asking for new ideas of what to do with it differently. I'm so proud of you, for always doing your best in school and never giving up no matter how many obstacles you had to face. You will always be in our hearts and prayers. God bless you and we love you very much.

— Sandra Navarrete
September 14, 2008 at 2:59 p.m.

Atul always had a smile on his face and he was always ready to laugh. He was so smart and I'm privileged to have be able to call him my friend. I'll never forget him and my thoughts go out to his family.

— Emily Mangel
about Atul Vyas
September 14, 2008 at 2:59 p.m.

Gabby,

My prayers are with you. I watched with sadness and prayed for you to hear news of your sister. We live close to the Metrolink station and wanted so much to go and pray with you. I have two younger sisters and it made me realize how strong the bond between sisters can be. Stay close to your loved ones and they will help you through this. Know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

— Christina
September 14, 2008 at 2:57 p.m.

Doyle's commitment to his family, to his Lord, and to his friends stands second to none. He has touched so many lives of his kids' friends - as a tutor in Economics, as a basketball and ballet dad. Our love and prayers are with the family. Doyle's legacy is in the amazing example of an honorable man of faith. Psalm 112:1-9, Is. 57:1-2.

— Family Friend
September 14, 2008 at 2:54 p.m.

Gabby, I heard you on TV and your deep love for your sister was felt when you spoke about your sister. This touched me so much that followed the news. I was really shocked when i heard the tragic news. I pray to God to provide strength and courage to you and your family. I will keep you and your family in prayers. God Bless you all.

— Elizabeth
September 14, 2008 at 2:51 p.m.

Not much I can say that hasn't already been said. My father and I had our ups and downs, luckily we ended on an up. This was the man that coached my little league teams and supported me all through my high school basketball days. I don't think he ever missed a game. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren. There was nothing he would not do for them. It so Ironic that he was killed doing the thing he loved most, riding trains. Dad, you know I loved you and you will be with be with me forever in my heart.
Rest in Peace, you don't have to worry about anything anymore.
Love,
Your son, Jeff

— Jeff Buckley
September 14, 2008 at 2:50 p.m.


Keep in mind
  • The Times initially mispelled the name of Michael Hammersley and Beverly Mosley.
  • The coroner's office reported a 26th victim the afternoon of Sept. 15, but a few hours later said the tally was 25.

Chatsworth Metrolink Crash is the Los Angeles Times' database of fatalities from the Sept. 12, 2008, train collision.
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Latest Numbers

25 dead

135 injured

About the Data Desk

This page was created by the Data Desk, a team of reporters and Web developers at The Times.