Police Believe Train Crash to be Tragic Accident; Friend's Father Says Victim was Hearing Impaired

The appears to be a tragic accident, police said.

“There is nothing that has led us to believe otherwise,” said Fenton Police Lt. Jason Slater.

Fenton Police met with Canadian National Railway (CN) officials Thursday to review train surveillance. Slater said , walked with her head down as the Canadian National Railway train approached from the east just west of the US 23 overpass Monday around 7 p.m.

John Hargenrader said his daughters were friends with Seigle and said she was hearing impaired. Police have declined to confirm if she had hearing problems. Hargenrader and his 17-year-old daughter placed flowers where the train stopped near the US 23 overpass Thursday.

“Because of her impairment, she was sensitive to other kids who had challenges, and extended kindness to all, especially when they needed it most.  She was always happy. Audrey was an angel,” Hargenrader said.

He said Seigle attended Fenton schools after transferring from Charyl Stockwell Academy in Howell.

A gathering in memory of Seigle was held Friday from 1 until 8 p.m. at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Hamburg Chapel, according to the Borek Jennings Funeral Home website. The funeral will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday at Shalom Lutheran Church Shalom Lutheran Church, 1740 East M-36 in followed by burial at the Fairview Cemetery in Brighton, according to the site.  

Many supporters left messages on the Borek Jennings guestbook page as well.

“Rest in peace, Audrey. I love you and I miss you. You will never be forgotten,”
Claire Lang posted.

Supporters have started a “Rest in Peace Audrey Seigle” page on Facebook and filled it with messages, songs and pictures.

“Sweet, sweet Audrey. Your smile lit up my day. Your giggles would pop right out in a quiet classroom and get students to giggle with you. I will always remember you as the fun loving young lady I knew at CSA. Love you, Mrs. T.” posted Dorothy J. Carden Tarnowski.