California Surf Instructor Loses Arm in Train Accident

A 24-year-old surf instructor from California suffered a severe injury when she was struck by an Amtrak train while crossing train tracks with her electric bike. Elieah Boyd was pushing her 80-pound e-bike across the tracks in Ventura when the incident occurred.

Boyd recounted that she was in shock upon realizing her arm was missing—it was later found several feet away and was successfully reattached. She described the moment as surreal, saying, “There was no train horn. It was just a few seconds from when I saw the train to when it happened. I just happened to have my hand still on the bike as the train went by. The train barely clipped the bike, just enough to take my arm off.”

The accident happened just before 5:30 p.m. on July 7. Thankfully, a retired firefighter nearby called emergency services. Boyd was airlifted to UC Irvine Medical Center, where she underwent a lengthy 10-hour surgery to reattach her limb. She still faces two more surgeries in the coming weeks but reports some sensation returning to her arm.

Despite her injuries, Boyd remains hopeful and eager to return to surfing—her passion. She expressed her determination, stating, “As soon as I can touch the water, I’ll be on a surfboard. That’s all I dream about. I just want to get back in the water and surf.”

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to support her recovery and medical expenses, raising over $50,000 of its $65,000 goal. The campaign highlights her resilience and positive outlook despite the challenges ahead.

Boyd recalls hearing no warning before the train clipped her and shares her hope to be back in the ocean soon. Her recovery journey is just beginning, but her unwavering spirit continues to inspire those around her.