Officials have said that the head of Chicago's commuter rail system died by apparently stepping in front of a train hours before a hearing to determine his job status.

The Chicago Tribune has reported that Philip Pagano was killed Friday morning near the suburban Crystal Lake station.

Pagano's death "appears to be a suicide," the McHenry County coroner said.

The newspaper also said that Pagano was on paid leave during an investigation of his finances and died shortly before Metra directors were to meet to discuss his status.

It had launched a criminal investigation of alleged financial irregularities by Pagano, who headed the Metra commuter rail system since 1990, the Cook County State's Attorney's Office said on Thursday.

It was with "great sadness that we report the passing this morning of Philip A. Pagano," a Metra statement said.

The statement further said, "Phil served this agency with distinction for many years. Today, we shall remember the good work he achieved with our board of directors and the men and women of Metra." (With Inputs from Agencies)