Antioch Man Struck By Amtrak

While the new Antioch City Hall Chambers were revealed inside the City Hall building, the community gathered outside to honor the life of Louie Rocha & advocate for the unhoused living on the streets of Antioch.

Louie’s movement had been reduced to a shuffle after suffering from a stroke while living on the streets of Antioch. Witnesses say he simply needed to use the restroom privately & with dignity. He respected the community enough to slowly relocate to a private area away from the public in order to relieve himself.

Louie crossed the train tracks near the Antioch Veterans Memorial where he was clipped by the Amtrak & killed on impact.

“I know they don’t like the camp sites, that’s something that cannot be avoided, so we would like for them to get bathrooms by the camp sites so that a situation like this doesn’t happen again” Louies sister told me in an interview before the vigil.

Around 50 gathered to hear stories about Louie, his life, & the profound impact he had on others. Louie was deeply connected to the community & will be deeply missed.

Advocates are calling on the community to call into the Antioch City Council every 2nd & 4th Tuesday to advocate for bathrooms, better services, & adequate shelter.

November 23rd, 2021 is the next Antioch City Council meeting, you can participate digitally here: https://www.antiochca.gov/government/city-council-meetings/live/