Family's Heartbreak After Tragic Level Crossing Accident
The family of an 11-year-old boy have spoken of their profound devastation after he was tragically killed on a level crossing while walking to school in south London.
Jaiden Shehata was struck by a Southern train travelling at approximately 50mph (80km/h) at the Bourneview footpath crossing near Kenley on the morning of January 23. The incident occurred at around 8am as Jaiden was making his way to school.
Investigation Reveals Critical Details
According to a report from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), the train driver sounded the horn and applied the emergency brakes upon realising Jaiden was starting to cross the tracks.
The report states that Jaiden looked up in response to the warning horn but, tragically, did not have time to react and move clear before the train reached the crossing. The RAIB investigation concluded that he was "probably distracted by [his] mobile phone" at the time.
A Life Full of Promise: Family's Emotional Tribute
Jaiden's heartbroken family have now paid an emotional tribute to their son, describing him as a "thoughtful and kind hearted" boy who "loved to spread happiness".
In a statement issued via British Transport Police, they said: "We are absolutely devastated at the loss of our son. Jaiden loved to spread happiness and always had a smile on his face. He was always thoughtful and kind hearted. He found such joy in helping people."
The family remembered Jaiden as a talented footballer and keen Chelsea supporter. He was also deeply committed to his faith, having been a Deacon since the age of four.
"Jaiden was the most kind hearted and caring boy, and his death has left us all completely shattered. We are lost in our grief," the tribute concluded.
RAIB Issues Urgent Safety Recommendations
In the wake of the tragedy, the RAIB has issued three key safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents.
The first recommendation urges school curriculum setters across the United Kingdom to collaborate with railway infrastructure managers to introduce targeted and locally relevant railway safety lessons for pupils of all ages.
Two further recommendations were directed at Network Rail, working alongside the Rail Safety and Standards Board.
- To make the dangerous areas at level crossings more noticeable, particularly for people who may be distracted.
- To better understand the risk profile of younger people and assess whether this warrants different approaches to risk mitigation at level crossings.
Additionally, the RAIB identified a learning point to consider actions that could alert users to the danger at individual crossings where standard safety provisions cannot be fully met.
