Train driver Shaun Burton, 60, who died when his train crashed into the rear of another near Bedford, suffered traumatic injuries to his brain stem and chest, an inquest has heard. The collision at Elstow on June 19 left 162 people injured, with 102 requiring hospital treatment.
Inquest Adjourned Pending Reports
Senior Coroner for Bedfordshire and Luton, Emma Whitting, opened and adjourned the inquest at Ampthill in Bedfordshire. The hearing was brief, lasting only five minutes. The coroner stated the inquest would be postponed pending reports from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch and British Transport Police.
Coroner's officer Natalie Shirran described the incident: "On June 19 2026, at approximately 17.14 hours, a collision occurred south of Bedford Rail station between train 1H46 and the rear of stationary train 1B67." She explained that train 1B67 had stopped due to a fault, and the driver was contacting the signaller and maintenance staff. The signalling system had placed following trains at red signals. However, train 1H46 departed Bedford at 17.10 hours and subsequently passed a red signal.
Cause of Death Confirmed
During the proceedings, the coroner's officer presented a statement from a consultant pathologist, who disclosed the cause of death as "traumatic injuries to the brain stem and chest, pending further investigations."
Tributes to Shaun Burton
East Midlands Railway, where Burton worked, paid tribute to him as a "dedicated railway professional" who joined the company in 2019. Managing director Will Rogers said: "Shaun was known for his quick-wit, kind, generous, and intelligent nature, and for always having a smile on his face. He was a well respected colleague both in his role as a Driver, and in his previous role as a Train Manager, often acting as a trusted advisor and available to share his wisdom, support and guidance to others. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him."
Rogers added: "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Shaun's loved ones and all those affected by this tragic incident and we will continue to remember Shaun's name with respect, gratitude, and appreciation for his contribution to the railway industry during this difficult time."
Burton's family said they were "devastated" by his death.
