Body of Camas man discovered near train tracks

A man’s body was discovered near the railroad tracks in Camas early Sunday morning.

According to a press release released Monday afternoon by the Camas Police Department, the man has been identified as 22-year-old Sami Nesta-Serrano of Camas.

At 6:15 a.m. on Sunday, 911 officials called for Camas fire and police and BNSF Railway to respond to the tracks at Southeast Sixth Avenue and Franklin Street, near the Washougal River.

According to BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas, a pair of trains traveling in opposite directions spotted and confirmed a man’s body was lying to the right of the tracks.

An exact time and cause of death has not been determined. The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office is examining the body.

“This is a tragic situation that is currently being investigated,” Melonas said, adding that train video tapes are being reviewed by investigators.

This time of year, that area is very popular with fishermen, with dozens of cars parked along Southeast Dallas Street on a daily basis — from early in the morning until well into the evening.

Melonas said a BNSF safety team is currently reviewing whether additional preventative measures might be taken, including posting warning signs. He added that patrols will be increased in the area to enforce laws and help educate the public on rules and regulations regarding railroad tracks.

“Whether it’s a side track or a main line like the one that runs through Camas and Washougal, expect a moving train on any line in any location,” he said, adding that trains pass through the local area 30 to 35 times per day. “All railroad property is no trespassing.”

Although the city of Washougal has instituted “quiet zones” near railroad crossings throughout the city, no such limitations are in place within Camas city limits.

According to protocol, unless “quiet zones” exist, railroad engineers blow train horns at railroad crossings and in emergency situations. Melonas said no horn is required in the immediate area where the Nesta-Serrano’s body was found.