MOBILE, Ala. — The engineer operating the train that tragically struck and killed three homeless men on the tracks in southern Alabama reported that he did not see the men and was unaware of the incident at the time.

According to the Alabama Port Authority, a second engineer, who had a clearer view of the tracks, discovered the bodies more than six hours after the collision occurred on Tuesday, subsequently alerting the Mobile police department.

Authorities indicated that two of the deceased men were found in close proximity to one another, whereas the third body was recovered nearly one mile away from the initial location.

This railway line operates through a heavily populated area of Mobile, serving as a link to various port facilities.

The police reported that the ages of the two identified men are 46 and 63 years old; however, their identities are being withheld until their families have been notified. As for the third victim, officials have not yet been able to establish his identity.

Local residents mentioned that the three men were often seen near the train tracks, and authorities speculate that they may have been sleeping when the incident occurred.

Officials confirmed that the train did sound its horn prior to passing through the area, and as a result of the investigation, no criminal charges are expected to be filed against the train operator.