Shaun Burton Identified as Bedford Train Crash Fatality, Line Remains Closed Until 28 June
The family of Shaun Burton, the train driver killed in Friday’s rail collision near Bedford, has released a statement expressing their devastation. Mr. Burton, 60, died after two East Midlands Railway (EMR) services, bound for London St Pancras, collided, resulting in injuries to 100 people.
In a tribute circulated by British Transport Police (BTP), his family stated: “We are devastated by his loss. Our thoughts are also with those affected by this incident.”
Dave Calfe, General Secretary of the train driver’s union ASLEF, described Mr. Burton’s death as “heartbreaking,” noting his dedication to the railway, where he had worked for seven years after a career in bus and coach driving. “He was dedicated to the job, devoted to his colleagues and enormously popular at his depot,” Mr. Calfe added.
Collision Details and Aftermath
The incident, which occurred at 17:15 BST just south of Elstow, near the A421 and A6 interchange, led to a major incident declaration. The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed that 11 individuals sustained very serious injuries, with 32 others injured and 57 receiving minor injuries. As of the latest update, 28 people remain hospitalised, nine of whom are in critical condition.
The trains involved were the 16:40 service from Corby, Northamptonshire, and the 15:50 service from Nottingham.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) is working with BTP to determine the cause of the crash. Network Rail has indicated that the line between Bedford and Luton is expected to remain closed until 28 June for ongoing investigations and repair work, causing continued disruption for passengers.
