by Catherine Tsai

TITUSVILLE - Brad and Cindy were supposed to get married aboard the Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad train, but because of a fatal car crash, they never even made it to the station.

And that's where the train's passengers stepped in Saturday night.

It was the second "murder" passengers have helped solve this summer aboard the mystery train this summer, and guests have four more chances through August and September to become master sleuths.

Toronto-based Larry Zaidlin Productions once again brought actors to Titusville this year to help stage murder mysteries for guests to enjoy.

For the past six years, the mystery train has provided guests with entertainment and a catered dinner, too, said John Cramer, general manager for the Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad.

Each mystery train leaves the station a 6:45 p.m., though passengers are encouraged to arrive early. "As soon as you enter the station, you must begin talking with each and every person on the platform. Find out as much information as possible...," advises a handout given to each guest.

Mingling with passengers are actors, ready to provide both clues and red herrings. But be careful - it's possible one of them could be the murderer you're looking for.

Florida residents Lou and Fred Burns and the Rev. Charles and Edna Williamson of DuBois were two couples aboard the train. Charles Williamson and Lou Burns are brother and sister. They chose to ride the train during a visit to the area after a friend recommended the experience.

Paul Garin of California was another guest aboard. He was visiting his friends Don and Darlene Hovas of Titusville who wanted to show Garin, a man who built his own steamship something different.

They joined 50-some others in trying to solve the murder mystery.

The train usually seats a few cars of passengers, but the passenger load has been reduced to offer a more intimate setting for the mystery train. The maximum for each mystery excursion is 150 riders. Reservations are required.

According to Cramer, most seats have been taken for the rest of the rides. He advised would-be passengers to reserve tickets soon.

Each $54.95 ticket includes not only the train ride and mystery play, but also wine and cheese refreshments at Rynd Farm Station, a full dinner, tax and gratuity.

The drama begins from the moment you arrive at the train station, continues through the train ride, and during dinner back at the station.

Murder may seem a dark topic, but on Saturday night, the lively actors and some witty passengers kept the group laughing through the evening.

When the evening was over the investigator revealed the murderer, with a little help from the audience - or at least some amusing theories from the audience.

Case closed.