In the quiet expanse of Gallatin County, Montana, a heartbreaking incident unfolded on a warm August afternoon, forever altering the lives of those connected to a vibrant young woman. On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, near the serene Milwaukee Fishing Access Site close to Three Forks, 20-year-old Anna Steigerwald of Littleton, Colorado, was struck and killed by a Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) train. The tragedy, which occurred shortly after 4:00 p.m., has left a community in mourning and authorities searching for answers.
The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office responded swiftly to the scene, joined by investigators from BNSF Railroad, as emergency responders worked desperately to save Anna. Despite their efforts, the injuries she sustained were too severe, and she was pronounced dead at the site. The loss of such a young life has cast a somber shadow over the region, with Sheriff Dan Springer articulating the collective grief: “We wish to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and all affected by the tragic loss of Anna.”
Anna Steigerwald, described as a bright soul from Littleton, Colorado, was in Montana when her life was cut short. While details about her presence near the tracks remain scarce, the incident has sparked questions about safety along the railway that cuts through the picturesque yet rugged Montana landscape. The Milwaukee Fishing Access Site, known for its tranquil riverside views and recreational allure, now bears the weight of this devastating event.
As the investigation continues, authorities are piecing together the moments leading up to the accident. The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and BNSF investigators are working diligently to uncover the circumstances, examining factors such as the train’s speed, visibility, and whether Anna was on or near the tracks at the time of the collision. No official details have been released about the exact sequence of events, leaving the community to grapple with the suddenness of the loss.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by railway crossings and tracks, particularly in areas where natural beauty draws people close to these powerful machines. The investigation’s findings may shed light on whether additional safety measures are needed to prevent future heartbreak.
For now, the focus remains on honoring Anna’s memory. Her family and friends, spanning from Colorado to Montana, are left to navigate an unimaginable loss. Sheriff Springer’s heartfelt words echo the sentiment of a community united in sorrow, offering support to those grieving the loss of a young woman whose life ended far too soon.
