A “person under train” (PUT) incident is a suicidal action involving a person throwing themselves at a moving train. This may cause trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), to railroad drivers. This study investigated the experiences of railroad drivers of a PUT incident. Data were obtained from two drivers through in-depth interviews and personal narratives regarding their PUT experience and personal lives after the incident. Expressing thoughts through writing was an effective intervention that provided insights into their experience. Thus, an educational program combining mental health management and PTSD treatment is recommended for workers who experience such trauma. •Narrative exploration helps to alleviate post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.•Governmental trauma management programs are need for traumatized engineers.•Railroad engineers who experience trauma are likely to ruminate on its memory.•Reinterpreting traumatic experiences can positively impact one's quality of life.•Immediate immersion is needed following trauma, with long-term follow-up.