A train driver who perished when his locomotive collided with the rear of another train succumbed to ‘traumatic injuries’ affecting his brain and chest, an inquest has heard. Shaun Burton, 60, was at the controls of his train during the crash at Elstow, near Bedford, on June 19.
The collision resulted in 162 casualties, with 102 individuals requiring hospital care. An inquest examining his death has been opened and subsequently adjourned at Ampthill in Bedfordshire, according to the BBC.
Senior Coroner for Bedfordshire and Luton, Emma Whitting, informed the brief proceedings that the inquest would be postponed pending reports from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch and British Transport Police, reports Lancs Live.
View 3 ImagesShaun Burton died during a train crash(Image: Family Handout/PA Wire)
The coroner’s officer, Natalie Shirran, said: “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 the driver was contacting the signaller and maintenance staff. The signalling system had placed following trains at red signals. Train 1H46 departed Bedford at 17.10 hours and subsequently passed a red signal.”
Throughout the five-minute session, the coroner’s officer presented a statement wherein a consultant pathologist disclosed the cause of death as “traumatic injuries to the brain stem and chest, pending further investigations”.
Last month, East Midlands Railway paid tribute to Shaun as a “dedicated railway professional” who joined the firm in 2019. Managing director Will Rogers remarked that his “commitment, service and professionalism touched the lives of colleagues and passengers”.
View 3 ImagesOver 100 people were injured when two trains crashed in Bedfordshire(Image: Chris Radburn/PA Wire)
He stated: “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.
“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.”
Meanwhile, Shaun’s family expressed being “devastated” by his passing.
Article continues below
Ensure our latest stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.