Former Notre Dame Fighting Irish football athlete, Harvard Business School alumnus, and the creator of Badlands Security, Cavan James Finigan, has been named as the person who sadly lost his life earlier this week in an incident involving a Metro-North train in the Bronx.

Ex-Notre Dame football athlete and Harvard Business School

Cavan Finigan, Founder of Badlands Security Died in NYC Train Incident

Finigan, a highly regarded entrepreneur and a cherished member of the Boston and Milton, Massachusetts communities, was acknowledged not only for his successful career but also for the significant influence he had on family, friends, and colleagues.

A Distinguished Professional and Leader

Cavan Finigan held the position of founder and CEO at Badlands Security, a firm noted for its cutting-edge strategies in contemporary security services and risk management. His efforts gained admiration from clients and peers, who often labeled him as motivated, ethical, and devoted to achieving high standards.

Prior to establishing his business, Finigan laid down an impressive educational background. He obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Notre Dame, where he also had the honor of being part of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team.

Subsequently, he achieved his Master of Business Administration at Harvard Business School, where he continued to develop the leadership capabilities and strategic understanding that would define his path as an entrepreneur.

A Devoted Husband and Cherished Friend

In addition to his professional accolades, Cavan was deeply cherished by those close to him. He was a committed husband to Mary Kate Holmes, whom he wed in 2024 after a relationship that lasted over four years. Friends remember their bond as affectionate, encouraging, and filled with mutual aspirations and happiness.

The couple had a private wedding and were in the process of starting their life together. At the time of this report, Mary Kate’s status and any public comments regarding the loss have not been shared.

Details of the Incident

Emergency services were summoned to the Fordham Metro-North Train Station, situated at 397 East Fordham Road, following notifications of an individual on the tracks. Dispatchers received the alert under EMS Box 3370, indicating a “person hit by a train.” First responders acted swiftly at the location, but unfortunately, Finigan did not survive.

Authorities are still looking into the details surrounding the event to figure out what caused him to be on the tracks.

Community Shock and Support

The news of Finigan’s death has left the communities of New York, Massachusetts, and Notre Dame in shock. Former classmates, teammates, and business partners have started sharing touching tributes that celebrate his integrity, vigor, and devotion to his loved ones.

Many view him as an exemplary leader—calm, motivating, and empathetic—whose presence enriched teams and made individuals feel valued.

Support and Safety Resources

Officials have not yet provided any conclusions regarding what caused the incident. Out of respect for the family and the ongoing investigation, further information has not been released.

If you or anyone you know is facing difficulties or emotional challenges, assistance is available. Reach out to 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, for confidential support anytime.