An inquest has heard that train driver Shaun Burton, 60, likely died from "traumatic injuries to the brainstem and chest" following a collision on June 19, 2026. The incident occurred when the East Midlands Railway (EMR) train Mr. Burton was driving struck the rear of a stationary train operated by the same company.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) previously reported that Mr. Burton's train proceeded past a red signal near the crash site in Elstow, Bedfordshire. The inquest, which opened at Bedfordshire and Luton Coroners Court, was informed that the collision happened around 5:14 p.m. between train 1H46 and the stationary train 1B67.
According to coroner's officer Natalie Shirran, the stationary train had stopped due to a fault with its Automatic Warning System (AWS) equipment, which caused its brakes to apply unexpectedly. This fault led the signaling system to display a red signal for following trains. Train 1H46 departed Bedford at 5:10 p.m. and subsequently passed the red signal before colliding with the stationary train.
Train data recovered from the wreckage indicates that the brakes on Mr. Burton's train were applied at 77 mph approximately 200 yards before impact, with the speed reduced to 49 mph at the time of the collision. CCTV footage from the train also showed the signal displaying a red aspect as the train approached and passed it.
Mr. Burton's train was equipped with AWS, which provides audible warnings for drivers approaching signals. The system is designed to automatically apply the emergency brake if a warning is not acknowledged by the driver. The RAIB's investigation is examining various factors, including why the Nottingham train stopped, the functionality of its AWS, the crashworthiness of both trains, and the emergency response.
The collision resulted in 162 people being injured, with 102 requiring hospital treatment. At the time of the RAIB's interim report, 53 passengers were still hospitalized, eight of whom were in critical condition.
A post-mortem examination confirmed Mr. Burton's cause of death as traumatic injuries. His family was informed about the inquest but did not attend. Coroner Emma Whitting expressed condolences to Mr. Burton's family, friends, and colleagues.
Mr. Burton had a career spanning buses and coaches before joining the railway. His family issued a statement expressing devastation at his loss and extending thoughts to others affected. Colleagues remembered his wit, and employers praised his dedication.
EMR managing director Will Rogers stated the company is committed to supporting the investigation and offered condolences. He also noted that Britain's railways are among the safest globally, with fatal accidents being rare.
The inquest has been adjourned pending the conclusion of investigations by the RAIB and British Transport Police.