Death on rail tracks

A person died on railway tracks just south of Palmerston North yesterday. Emergency services were called to the incident on the tracks that run under Longburn Rongotea Rd, Longburn, just after 6.30am. Police were inspecting the incident while firefighters assisted with patient care, Fire and Emergency spokeswoman Karen McDonald said. A Kiwirail spokeswoman said the train, carrying 65 passengers, was stopped and continued once police reopened the tracks. Buses were dispatched to Shannon, Levin and O¯ taki to assist passengers aboard the Capital Connection who had been travelling to Wellington. ‘‘There are delays to some freight services out of Palmerston North. Incidents like these are distressing for all those affected, including our drivers and staff. Our thoughts go out to the family and all those involved.’’