Driver accelerated past red signal before fatal train crash

A train driver died when his train collided with a stationary train after passing a red signal and continuing to accelerate, an interim report from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has found. The collision occurred near Elstow, Bedfordshire, on June 19.

Shaun Burton, 60, was driving an East Midlands Railway (EMR) train from Corby to London St Pancras when it struck a stationary EMR train travelling from Nottingham to London St Pancras. The crash derailed both trains, which carried approximately 257 people. More than 160 passengers were injured, with 102 taken to hospital.

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Investigators report the East Midlands train driver acknowledged a warning but did not slow before colliding with a stationary train.

Driver's actions before collision

Data recorders from Mr Burton's train show that he acknowledged a red signal warning but then continued to accelerate, reaching a maximum speed of 76mph. The RAIB report states the driver applied the full service brake about 10 seconds before the crash. Approximately two seconds later, the emergency brake was applied when the train was travelling at around 75mph, about 200 metres from the stationary train.

Investigators believe this sequence of braking likely indicates Mr Burton detected the presence of the train ahead and responded. The moving train's speed had reduced to approximately 50mph at the point of impact. Footage from Mr Burton's train shows it was about 600 metres from the stationary train when the last available recording was made.

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Stationary train's unexpected stop

The RAIB had previously stated that the stationary train had stopped unexpectedly due to a fault with its automatic warning system. This fault caused its brakes to apply, which in turn resulted in the signal behind it automatically changing to red. Trains approaching a red signal are required to stop.

Data from the moving train indicated the driver controlled its speed after leaving Bedford and acknowledged a yellow signal warning. Drivers are trained to anticipate a red signal following a yellow one and to reduce speed accordingly to be able to stop. However, the data shows Mr Burton's train passed the red signal at 17:12:53.

Ongoing investigation

The RAIB is continuing its investigation into the reasons why Mr Burton's train passed the signal at danger. The inquiry will examine the actions of those involved, any influencing factors, and the status of braking and other safety systems on the train. Early-stage investigation reports often detail immediate events without providing full explanations.