Shaun Burton, a 60-year-old train driver, died from traumatic injuries to the brainstem and chest in a 49mph collision near Bedford, an inquest has heard. The crash occurred on June 19, 2026, when the East Midlands Railway (EMR) train he was driving struck the rear of a stationary EMR train in Elstow, Bedfordshire.
Collision Details and Injuries
The inquest, opened at Bedfordshire and Luton Coroners Court in Ampthill on Tuesday, heard that the collision happened at approximately 17:14 hours. Coroner's officer Natalie Shirran stated 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. Train 1H46, driven by Burton, departed Bedford at 17:10 and subsequently passed a red signal.
A total of 162 people were injured, with 102 requiring hospital treatment. According to the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) interim report released on June 24, 53 people remained in hospital three weeks after the crash, including eight in critical condition.
Investigation Findings
Footage from a forward-facing CCTV camera on Burton's train showed that a signal near the crash site was displaying a red aspect as the train approached and passed it. Data from the wreckage indicated that the brakes were applied while the train was travelling at 77mph, approximately 200 yards before the collision. The speed had dropped to 49mph at the moment of impact.
The train was equipped with automatic warning system (AWS) technology, which triggers a bell or chime for green signals and a horn for non-green signals. Drivers must acknowledge the warning by pressing a button; otherwise, the emergency brake engages. The RAIB confirmed that the stationary train had stopped unexpectedly due to a fault with its AWS equipment, causing its brakes to activate and the signal behind it to switch to red.
Post-Mortem and Inquest Proceedings
A post-mortem examination by consultant pathologist Dr Virginia Fitzpatrick-Swallow recorded the cause of death as traumatic injuries to the brainstem and chest, pending further investigations. Coroner Emma Whitting expressed condolences to Burton's family, who did not attend the court hearing. The inquest has been adjourned pending the outcomes of investigations by the RAIB and British Transport Police.
