I never thought in a million years that i would be going through what myself and family are going through right now let along writing about it in the latimes. but i just would like to give my father all the respect and admiration that he deserved by saying I love you pappy, i remember every time i call you that whether it was over the phone or in front of a crowd of people you would always have a big smile and say hi meykee. i have so many memories with you dad but i wish i could have more our time together was cut too short. the last time i saw you, we went out and had lobster with you and mom we had so much fun sitting out on the restaurant patio even though there was so many bees. i remember that whole trip you talked about how you and mom met and how you say that she fell in love with you because of your good charm but she says that you were the one who stalked her every where she went regardless of who was right im so glad that you two met and fell in love, i couldnt have asked for two other crazyass parents. it was good times and we all laughed. i know you worked sooo sooo hard for the family thats why it hurts so much to deal with this because though we didnt see the whole family much but when you were here at least i got to see them once in awhile. i miss and love you so muchHHhhh, my heart cant even describe the words but i know you are in a better place where there is no more pain and suffering. i just ask of you not to worry and or be afraid, i want you to rest soul and be at peace with my grandmothers, grandfathers and aunt and uncles. and pappy though you are not here pysically,spirtually and in our hearts you are i will continue to listen and follow the guidence that you have taught me. I LOVE YOU DAD. always your daughter MEYCHAO

— Mey Chao (daughter)
about Yi Chao
September 19, 2008 at 12:06 a.m.

From the moment we met i knew you were a great guy! You only lived at my complex for a few years, but we had some great times! Jordan also loved spending time with you and your family. We are really gonna miss you!! Your gonna be in our thoughts FOREVER! There's so much i want to say because there was so much i wanted to do with you still, i could be here forever writing to you. I think you know what's in my heart. One more thing before I finish "Did you try to call me last night?" LOVE YOU MAN -R.I.P. BRO-

— Frank Lopez and family
September 18, 2008 at 11:55 p.m.

All I can think about is the 2 strawberry daiquiri's you owe me. That sucks! Your not suppose to be gone yet,I miss your smart-ass-ness. It just came natural to you! I miss and love you!! You will be remembered for all of your great qualities, your an awesome friend and person!!! XOXO :)

— Steph SLC
September 18, 2008 at 11:38 p.m.

I found out just today of this horrible news. I'm 21 now, but both my brother who is now 19 along with my older cousin who is in his mid thirties along with myself and hundreds of others were blessed to have crossed paths with Mr. Grace. Years after being out of middle school, I can still clearly recall his fun loving sense of humor and true concern for his students. He was one of those few who truly loved what they did and were too modest about the lives they changed. He will never be forgotten. This world was fortunate enough to have had such a unique, caring and wonderful human being with the biggest and warmest heart. He is missed but his memory and legacy will continue to live on forever.

God Bless his family and all those who were affected by this horrible accident.

See you someday again Mr. Grace. :)
Peace.

— R. Khachatryan
September 18, 2008 at 11:33 p.m.

I did not know Donna personally, my daughter did. She says that she was one of those special people in life, one who could leave you with good feelings. My heart goes out to you, the family, at this time. Blessed to have had her in your lives, God will be with you in your time of need. When a person is remembered as she was, you know she truly was a beautiful lady. God Bless all of you in your time of sorrow.

— Marie
September 18, 2008 at 11:05 p.m.

What a lovely smile. May you rest in peace, Maria. I saw your mother on the news - she spoke about you so sweetly. I know you were loved and that you will be missed. God bless.

— Jill in Long Beach
September 18, 2008 at 10:37 p.m.

GOD BLESS U AND UR FAMILY.... RIP AIDA!!

— AGUILAR
September 18, 2008 at 10:36 p.m.

Im so sorry for you lost Alan & Angela. My prayers are with you and your family. God bless

— Gil
September 18, 2008 at 10:16 p.m.

Chris touched many lives. You will be missed and your life celebrated.

— Donna Winfrey
September 18, 2008 at 10:16 p.m.

I am a student at FIDM studying fashion design and feel a personal connection to Maria. I pray for your family to feel the peace of the Spirit though this season of sorrow. I hope for you to have an eternal perspective and remain confident that you can be with Maria again on the other side. Let your heart be comforted in this = ) All me love,

— Charlotte
September 18, 2008 at 10:15 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.