The L.A. Times today ran a profile on Robert Sanchez, the Metrolink train engineer who died along with 24 others when the train he was guiding collided with an oncoming Union Pacific train last Friday in the tragic accident that injured 135 other people.
Among the things that the profile reveals is that Sanchez was gay and had a lover who committed suicide five years ago:
"In the years before his death, Sanchez led a nomadic life, with public records showing addresses in Oregon, Colorado, Nevada, Arizona, Nebraska and California. In 2000, he and Daniel Charles Burton, a waiter, bought a home in Crestline. Burton moved to California from West Haven, Conn... seeking better weather and the freedom to be gay..... On Feb. 14, 2003, Burton hanged himself in the garage of their home. 'Rob, Happy Valentine's Day,' read a note Burton left behind.... 'I love you. Please take care of yourself and Ignatia. I love you both very much. Daniel.' Ignatia was the greyhound the men owned. The coroner's report showed that Burton tested positive for HIV."
Thank you.