Student hit by train, killed

HOLLAND, Mich. (WOOD) — A junior at Hope College was hit by a train and killed on Saturday evening, a letter posted by the college’s president on social media said.

President Matt Scogin’s post said that Jennifer Kasunick of Bay Village, Ohio, was hit by a train near 10th Street. Police haven’t released specific details related to the crash.

“Almost everyone on campus knew Jennifer. And to know her was to love her. Her joyful spirit was a constant source of warmth and light – especially in Phelps Hall, where she served as an RA alongside her service dog Rowdy, who survived,” the post said in part.

Kasunick was a violinist in the orchestra and learned to play all her music by ear. Hope College Disability and Accessibility Resources posted on Instagram in April 2024 that she was one of 11 nominees for the 2024 Accessibility Awareness Award.

“Jennifer has helped shed light on accessibility issues that would have otherwise gone unnoticed,” the post said in part. “… Jennifer’s positive presence on campus has challenged people’s misconceptions about blindness and has proven that her blindness, in many aspects, enriches her capabilities as a student, friend, and resident.”

In Scogin’s post on Sunday, he said he doesn’t know why God would allow this to happen and has questions but that “Jennifer’s eyes were opened last night.”

“And the first thing she saw was Jesus. I know that she has lost nothing — she has only gained. But we should not pretend the same is true for us. We have lost an amazing person that we loved very dearly. Our deep confusion, sadness and anger are impossible to deny,” the post said.

Campus support resources were listed in the post:

• Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): 616.395.7945

• Residential Life/Dean of Students: 616.395.7800

• Campus Ministries: van Andel Huys der Hope, 616.395.7145

Scogin told News 8 that there was a prayer gathering held Saturday night on campus.

Phelps Hall posted on Instagram and said that she will be missed by the staff and community.

“She had a way of lighting up any room she entered, always with a smile on her face. Her joy and love touched everyone around her, and her impact will never be forgotten. As we grieve together, we find comfort in knowing that to know her was truly to love her,” the post said.

News 8 has reached out to the Holland Department of Public Safety to learn more. We will update with more information once it has been released.

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