A teenager has been posthumously honoured as a hero after losing his life in a desperate attempt to rescue a distressed friend from an oncoming train. Jordan Everett, aged 16, tragically died alongside Joshua Myers, also 16, when both were struck by an Avanti West Coast train at Poynton railway station in Cheshire.
Coroner Praises Selfless Act
HM Senior Coroner for Cheshire, Jacqueline Devonish, presided over the inquest at Cheshire Coroner’s Court in Warrington. She described Jordan’s actions as profoundly selfless, stating he was thinking solely about saving his friend. CCTV footage revealed that only seconds elapsed between the first sight of the train’s lights and the fatal impact.
"They could not have moved fast enough with a train coming at that speed," Ms Devonish remarked. "Jordan’s act of selflessness in trying to save his friend is to be commended." She concluded that Jordan’s death was an accident, offering heartfelt condolences to his mother, Nicola, and affirming, "Well, he was a hero."
Events Leading to the Tragedy
The incident occurred on the evening of July 3 last year, following a gathering of friends at a local skate park. Joshua, from Handforth, Cheshire, climbed over a gate onto the rail platform and descended onto the track, where he expressed suicidal intentions. Witnesses reported that Jordan, from Stockport, Greater Manchester, jumped down upon seeing the approaching train’s lights in a valiant effort to push Joshua to safety.
Ms Devonish detailed the circumstances, noting that Joshua had been under significant stress, including peer pressure, bullying both in school and online, and outstanding police allegations related to a sexual assault claim, though no charges were filed. She concluded that Joshua died of misadventure, influenced by alcohol-induced impulsivity rather than a clear intent to take his own life.
Impact on Families and Community
The coroner extended her sympathies to both families, acknowledging the profound loss and the challenging circumstances surrounding Joshua’s life. "It is a lot to cope with for anyone, let alone a teenager," she said, highlighting the efforts of friends and family to protect him. This case underscores the tragic consequences of adolescent stress and the extraordinary bravery displayed in moments of crisis.
