On Tuesday, tragedy struck in the town of Clayton, North Carolina, when a 21-year-old woman was struck and killed by an Amtrak train near the intersection of Front Street and O’Neil Street. The victim was later identified as Ellaryan Miller, a resident of Wendell and a student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW).

According to town officials, the incident occurred shortly after 5 p.m., shortly after Miller had finished her workday. She had been working a summer internship in downtown Clayton and was walking to her car, which was parked in a lot on Front Street.

Instead of using one of the designated pedestrian crossings, Miller attempted to cross the train tracks by walking through a grassy area between two streets. Unfortunately, she stepped onto the tracks in the direct path of an oncoming train and was fatally struck.

The town of Clayton and local law enforcement have confirmed that all safety protocols for the train crossing were active at the time of the incident. The incident is being classified as a tragic accident, with no signs of foul play.

The loss of Ellaryan Miller has sent shockwaves through both the Clayton and UNCW communities. At just 21, she was recognized as a bright, dedicated, and passionate young woman with a promising future.

Dr. Christine Reed Davis, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at UNCW, issued a heartfelt statement expressing the university’s sorrow and describing the profound impact Miller had on campus.

“Her energy, warmth, and commitment to building community touched the Seahawk community deeply. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Ellaryan’s family, friends, and all who knew her,” said Dr. Davis.

Miller was actively involved on campus and demonstrated strong leadership. She served as the president of the Service-Dog Training and Education Program (STEP), a student organization dedicated to training service dogs and educating the public on their importance. Her work in this area reflected her compassion, sense of responsibility, and desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

In addition to her leadership role, Miller also worked as a fitness instructor with Campus Recreation, motivating fellow students and promoting wellness and balance — values she practiced in her daily life. Her peers and instructors described her as genuine, enthusiastic, and committed, someone who brought out the best in others through her positive energy and sincere efforts.

In the wake of her passing, UNCW has mobilized support services to assist grieving students and staff. The University Counseling Center is offering grief support for those affected, recognizing that such a sudden and tragic loss can have wide-reaching emotional impacts.

As investigations continue into the specifics of the incident, officials are also using this moment to remind the public of the importance of using designated crossings and observing safety precautions near train tracks. Even in areas that seem quiet or safe, trains can approach quickly and without warning, and bypassing marked crossings poses serious dangers.

The community of Clayton, along with the extended Seahawk family at UNCW, mourns the loss of a young life full of promise, compassion, and purpose. Ellaryan Miller’s legacy will live on in the many lives she touched through her leadership, her kindness, and her passion for service. Her passing serves as a sobering reminder of both the fragility of life and the enduring impact of a generous spirit.