Fillmore Man Passes in Fatal Traffic Collision Involving Metrolink Train

On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at approximately 2:14 PM, emergency personnel from the Moorpark Police Department, California Highway Patrol, Ventura County Fire Department, American Medical Response, and Gold Coast Ambulance responded to a traffic collision that occurred on the Union Pacific Rail Line near Montair Drive in the City of Moorpark. Investigators learned a semi-tractor was towing two trailers of lemons southbound from a privately owned ranch when a collision occurred with an eastbound Metrolink Train.

Initial investigation indicates that the driver of the semi-tractor, Jose Avila, of Fillmore, was ejected as a result of the collision. Life-saving measures were initiated by nearby workers and responding sheriff’s deputies; however, Mr. Avila was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was a total of 17 people on board the Metrolink Train. One passenger complained of minor injuries.

Rail operations on this section of the Union Pacific Rail Line was temporarily halted for several hours for the investigation. Metrolink and Amtrak arranged transportation for their effected passengers.

The collision is still under investigation by the Moorpark Police Traffic Bureau. Anyone who might have witnessed the collision is asked to contact Deputy Manley at 805-532-2700.

Prepared by: Sergeant Shawn Holzberger
News Release Date: June 27, 2025
Approved by: Captain Nick Odenath, Moorpark Chief of Police