Train Driver's Terrifying Ordeal at Southall Junction
A driver for the Heathrow Express service was forced to run for his life after a man described as being 'blood-stained' unexpectedly entered his cab. The alarming incident occurred late on Saturday 8 November, bringing an out-of-service train to a halt and triggering a major emergency response.
Chaotic Scene on the Tracks
The terrifying event unfolded at approximately 11.47pm near Southall East Junction. The empty Class 387 train, travelling from London Paddington to Reading, was being held at a red signal when the trespasser accessed the driver's compartment. Fearing for his safety, the train operator immediately fled the cab to raise the alarm.
The driver promptly contacted the Great Western Railway (GWR) Control team, detailing the threatening situation. His quick thinking set in motion a chain of events that would see authorities swiftly descend on the location.
Swift Police Response and Detention
British Transport Police officers were dispatched to the line close to Southall railway station following reports of a trespasser acting erratically and threatening a member of railway staff. Upon arrival, the situation was brought under control.
A man was located and subsequently detained under the Mental Health Act. According to a police spokesperson, the individual remains in hospital following the late-night confrontation. No passengers were on board the train at the time, preventing a potentially wider crisis.
A spokesperson for Great Western Railway confirmed an investigation is underway into how the person gained access to the out-of-service train. They acknowledged it was an 'unsettling incident' but emphasised that it was quickly brought under control thanks to the driver's immediate actions and the subsequent police detention.
