"Newton S. Deckerhoof, a middle division fireman, was struck by engine No. 1631 in the yard near Seventh street about 7.20 Saturday morning and fatally injured. He died half an hour later at the hospital, five minutes after his admission. Details of the accident are meagre, for the reason that no one saw it occur. From what Coroner James Foust could learn it appears that Deckerhoof was out on the footboard of his engine, 1596, which was passing down to the lower yard to take a train to Lewistown. It is probable that he clambered around the outside edge of the cab to clean the windows and while in this position engine 1631 passed along on the next track and struck him, knocking him to the tracks, where he was mangled by the wheels. There are others who believe that Deckerhoof was descending from the engine steps when he was struck. Examination at the hospital showed that his injuries consisted of a fracture of the skull and of the right thigh. The remains were given in charge of Undertaker Lafferty to be prepared for burial. Coroner Foust decided that an inquest was unnecessary. The deceased was born in Findlay*, O., October 30, 1860. He came to this city seven years ago, entering the employ of the Pennsylvania Railroad company. September 13, 1881, he was married to Miss Viola Van Horn, who, with two children {Carlisle and Reldia}, is yet living. His parents, residing in Findlay, and one sister, Milissa, of Greensburg, also survive. The deceased was a member of the Church of God and also of the Relief Fund. The remains were shipped to Findlay** yesterday morning for interment."
Morning Tribune, Altoona, PA, Monday, April 13, 1896, p. 1
*Death record has him born in Greensburg, OH.
**Death record has him buried in Greensburg on April 13.