Myths & Urban Legends Part II

Of course, apocryphal events have been translated, interpreted, and expressed from a variety of perspectives. Numerous ancient scrolls and books depict events that may have relation to the bible, yet remain separated from the canonical accounts of the old/new testaments. Similarly, modern tales and misunderstood events have been misinterpreted, and eventually discarded by society. These stories have thus evolved into superstitions known as myths and urban legends. As details remain incoherent, please acknowledge that these events have been portrayed in a variety of ways. The latter are simply briefed and based from my own, personal recollections of the tale.

The Chatsworth Passenger

In 2008, after departing Chatsworth station, a Union Pacific Freight train carrying 222 passengers received a head on collision from another operator. According to folklore, one passenger, who was lost in the wreckage, is said to have dialed family and friends multiple times. However, each time the respective individual answered, only static and loud noise was received. Throughout the night, they eagerly awaited notification that their loved one had been discovered. Unfortunately, hours later the man was found and pronounced dead. An autopsy report claims that the individual had died on impact, and was therefore unable to make the associated calls.

The Hitchhiker

Apparently, this derivative can be told in a variety of ways. For traditional purposes, I will relay the original, less detailed one. A man commuting home from work late one night notices a young girl hitchhiking on the side of the road. Afraid that the girl may have experienced car trouble, he pulls over and offers her a ride. Of course, she provides the address and small talk is initiated along the way; though no details are actually exposed. Assuming it personal, he casually transports her home and as he turns to wish the girl farewell, notices that she is missing. Baffled by the immediate action, he proceeds to the house and heedlessly knocks until an old woman answers the door. He advises the woman of the situation and demands an explanation. Apparently, the girl died years ago alongside the highway and still haunts those travelling it late at night.