The train driver who died in Friday's collision near Bedford has been identified as Shaun Burton, aged 60. Mr Burton was driving an East Midlands Railway service from Corby to London when it struck the rear of another train travelling from Nottingham to the capital.
Family and Union Pay Tribute
In a statement released by British Transport Police, his family said they were "devastated by his loss" and offered condolences to everyone affected. They requested privacy as they begin to grieve. Dave Calfe, general secretary of the Aslef train drivers' union, said: "We are all heartbroken by the death of Shaun Burton which leaves a hole in the lives of his family, friends, and colleagues, which will never be filled." He added that Mr Burton joined the railway later in life, having previously worked on buses and coaches, and became a train driver seven years ago. "He was dedicated to the job, and devoted to his colleagues and enormously popular at his depot," Calfe said.
Passengers Describe Frightening Collision
Passengers aboard the Nottingham service described the impact as "bewildering and frightening." Alistair Adamson, speaking to the BBC, said he feared an explosion would follow. "All of a sudden, a really big impact," he recalled. "I immediately felt myself lurching forward and saw my colleagues across from me getting thrown around."
Casualties and Royal Response
The East of England Ambulance Service confirmed that 100 people were injured, including 11 with serious wounds and 57 with minor injuries. Buckingham Palace revealed that King Charles was "greatly saddened" by the crash, with his "thoughts and sympathies" extended to the family of the deceased and all those affected.
