A tragic accident took the life of 27-year-old Shantisa Turner last Friday when, while attempting to cross the railroad tracks on Maryland Avenue just south of Baker Street she was struck and killed by a westbound Amtrak train.
“She was one of the sweetest people I’ve ever known and had a heart of gold,” said longtime friend Samantha Oneal. “She had unconditional love for everyone that was just so pure and innocent.”
Marissa Williams, a mother to four children, also knew her well. “She loved animals, she had a bearded dragon named Frank and would take him everywhere,” recalls Williams.
The pair have fond memories of the woman who loved to cook, draw, make bath bombs and foot scrubs and dance. “She was always the life of the party,” said Oneal.
Her friends said when the accident happened she was walking home from a trip to the Strawberry Patch and only a couple blocks from home. Oneal and Williams said she was happy about the plans she had made for that evening.
A makeshift memorial was set up where she passed away where mourners have left flowers, balloons and stuffed animals. Oneal and Williams said the place brings them peace. “The trains pass by and I think she’s on a train and going away from here,” said Oneal. “She’s going home where she can be with her mom who passed away ten years ago on Feb. 13, 2013.”
Even though they can’t see her anymore, they still sense her presence. Oneal said during a toast at the memorial, a balloon tapped the top of her glass, like Turner was offering her own toast. During a balloon release on Sunday night, the stop bars went down and lights flashed but no train was in sight.
The Turner family created a GoFundMe to help with funeral costs. To donate visit www.gofundme.com and search Shantisa Turner’s Memorial Funds.