On the evening of Feb. 9, the Larimer County Medical Examiner’s Office was called to investigate the scene of a pedestrian fatality due to being hit by a train in Wellington. This morning, the Larimer County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy on the deceased, who was identified as Victoria Archibald, age 16, of Wellington.
The cause of death, as determined by Larimer County Coroner James A. Wilkerson IV, MD, was multiple blunt force injuries. Wilkerson stated that the manner of death was due to an accident.
In a Feb. 10 email to Wellington Middle School parents, Principal Alicia Durand said the statement below was read to students:
“We want to let you know that an emergency happened last night in Wellington and a former student was killed. She was a junior at Poudre and her little brother goes to Eyestone. The staff at Wellington Middle School has been meeting to talk about how to help all of us deal with this news. Something like this normally brings up a variety of feelings, whether we knew this person or not. Some will feel sad, others angry and some might be afraid of what this might mean for the family and her brothers. Some people will show little or no reaction and some will show a lot of emotion. Remember to accept each person as they are and to respect their individual feelings. As you think about this situation, please be slow to judge but quick to offer support and compassion. Think about your comments and questions before saying them so they don’t come across as insensitive and judgmental. Think especially about the Poudre High School students and staff and try to support them now and in the weeks to come.
Let’s take this opportunity to again remind ourselves of how precious and fragile life is. Look around, value yourself and others. Treat all with respect and kindness. Work hard, play hard, and make the most of every single day. If you feel like you need some extra support, please contact Mr. Peisner, Mrs. Woodward or any staff member in the building and they will help you.”