The family of an 18-year-old young man is in mourning following the tragic loss of their beloved son, who was struck and fatally injured by a train in Darfield.

Shaun was killed on Mathias Street near State Highway 73, which occurred shortly after 7am on Wednesday.

His mother Sharon Reynolds Whaea posted a heart breaking message on Facebook.

“Today our beautiful 18 years old son Shaun was suddenly taken from this earth to his heavenly home.

”He was on his way to work, vibing along to his music dancing along the train tracks as he often does and was hit by the train. No one is at fault.

“As a whanau right now we need your prayers and love and thank you all for that.

“When we have made some decisions about farewelling Shaun’s earthly body we will let you know.

“For now, we know that the race before him has ended and he is with Jesus. Amen.”