Shaun Burton, Train Driver, Died From Traumatic Injuries in Salisbury Collision

Shaun Burton, a train driver involved in the Salisbury rail collision, died from traumatic injuries, an inquest heard. The incident, which occurred at the Fisherton Tunnel on 31 October 2021, saw two trains collide, leading to 102 individuals receiving hospital treatment.

The senior coroner for Wiltshire, David Ridley, stated that Mr Burton, 45, was identified by dental records. His cause of death was confirmed as traumatic injuries. The inquest, held in Salisbury, was adjourned to allow further investigations into the circumstances of the collision.

Initial reports from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch indicated that a South Western Railway service from London Waterloo to Honiton struck an object, resulting in the derailing of its leading carriage. This carriage subsequently collided with a Great Western Railway service travelling from Portsmouth Harbour to Bristol Temple Meads.

Both trains were travelling in the same direction towards a tunnel. The impact caused the second train to also derail, leading to significant damage and multiple injuries. Further details on the investigation's findings are anticipated as inquiries continue.