Train driver Shaun Burton suffered traumatic injuries to the brainstem and chest in a 49mph collision near Bedford, an inquest has heard. The 60-year-old died when the East Midlands Railway (EMR) train he was driving struck the rear of a stationary train operated by the same company on June 19.
Collision details and inquest opening
The inquest was opened at Bedfordshire and Luton Coroners Court in Ampthill on Tuesday. Coroner's officer Natalie Shirran told the court: "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."
Train 1B67 had stopped due to a fault, and its driver was in contact with the signaller and maintenance personnel. The signalling system had placed following trains at red signals. Train 1H46 departed Bedford at 17.10 hours and subsequently passed a red signal.
Casualties and injuries
A total of 162 people sustained injuries in the crash, with 102 requiring hospital treatment. At the time the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) interim report was released on June 24, 53 people remained in hospital, including eight in a critical condition.
RAIB findings on signal and speed
Footage from a forward-facing CCTV camera on Mr Burton's train showed that a signal close to the crash site "was displaying a red aspect as the train approached and then passed it", the RAIB reported. Information from the wreckage indicated the brakes were applied while the train was moving at 77mph, approximately 200 yards before the collision. By impact, speed had reduced to 49mph.
Mr Burton's train was equipped with automatic warning system (AWS) technology, which uses magnets in the tracks. The system sounds a bell or chime for a green signal and a horn for a non-green signal. Drivers must acknowledge the alert by pressing a button; otherwise, the emergency brake is automatically applied.
Stationary train fault and post-mortem
The RAIB confirmed that the stationary train had stopped unexpectedly after a malfunction with its AWS equipment activated its brakes. Consequently, the signal behind it automatically changed to red. Approaching trains are required to stop at red signals.
A post-mortem examination by consultant pathologist Dr Virginia Fitzpatrick-Swallow recorded Mr Burton's cause of death as "traumatic injuries to the brainstem and chest, pending further investigations." His family were informed of the inquest opening but were not present in court.
Coroner's condolences and adjournment
Coroner Emma Whitting said: "I would like to take this opportunity to pass on my condolences to Mr Burton's family, friends and colleagues for their loss." The inquest has been adjourned pending the outcome of RAIB and British Transport Police investigations.
