Boy, 13, struck and killed by a train while riding on e-bike

A 13-year-old boy who was killed after being struck by a train in Simi Valley over the weekend has been identified, as a grieving community remembers him for his energy, kindness and love of sports.

On Monday, the Simi Valley Youth Baseball League confirmed the boy as Reis Beck in a social media post honoring his life.

“Reis was more than a talented ballplayer—he was a beloved son, a brother, a teammate, and a true friend to so many,” the league wrote.

“His love for the game was evident every time he stepped on the field, but it was his kindness, his energy, and his unforgettable smile that truly made him special.”

Reis was one of four brothers in a close-knit family deeply involved in youth sports. His father coached him on the baseball field for several years, and those who knew the family described them as tightly bonded, spending much of their time supporting each other through athletics and school activities.

Authorities say the crash happened around 6:30 p.m. Saturday near the intersection of Sequoia Avenue and East Los Angeles Avenue, KTLA reported.

The teen was riding a motorized, two-wheeled device along the sidewalk when he entered the railroad crossing and was hit by a passing Amtrak train. He died at the scene despite emergency efforts, according to the Simi Valley Police Department.

Police previously said the victim was a local student. It was later confirmed Reis attended Sinaloa Middle School, where grief counselors were made available as classmates and staff processed the loss.

Investigators say early findings suggest the teen did not stop in time before crossing the tracks.

In a statement released shortly after the crash, police called the incident a devastating loss for the community.

“This is a heartbreaking loss for the Simi Valley community, and our thoughts are with the family, friends and classmates affected by this tragedy,” the department said.

Family members and neighbors described Reis as deeply connected to those around him.

“We will never forget Reis’ smile, his friendship, and the joy he brought to our SYB family. His spirit will always be a part of our fields, our teams, and our hearts,” according to the post by his little league.

His father said the 13-year-old loved competition and sports, but also showed a thoughtful, intuitive side, often picking up on how others were feeling.

A school worker who knew the family described them as close-knit and centered around athletics, while a nearby resident said the tragedy underscores the importance of safety awareness around motorized bikes and railroad crossings.

The youth baseball league said the loss has left players, families and coaches mourning together.

“There are no words that can fully express the heartbreak of losing someone so young, with so much life ahead of him,” the post read. “As a community, we are grieving together.”

A memorial has been set up at the school, where students have been leaving messages and sharing memories of Reis.

“Rest easy, Reis. You will always be part of our SYB family,” it added.

The league urged the public to keep the Beck family in their thoughts and to support one another during the difficult days ahead, adding that Reis’ impact will not be forgotten.

As the community rallies around the family, a GoFundMe campaign launched by a family friend — whose own son played alongside Reis — quickly gained traction. With a goal of $50,000, the fundraiser surpassed more than half that amount within a single night, reflecting the wide-reaching impact Reis had on those around him.

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