Boy, 11, killed by train while looking at phone at London crossing

An 11-year-old boy was struck and killed by a train at a level crossing (RAIB/PA) PA Media

A train fatally struck an 11-year-old boy at a level crossing in south London after he became distracted by his mobile phone, an investigation has found. Jaiden Shehata died at the Bourneview footpath crossing near Kenley on January 23 at approximately 8:03 am.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch concluded in its report that Jaiden was likely "distracted" when crossing the railway line. Closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage showed him looking at a "glowing object" believed to be his phone screen, with his hood up. Analysis of his mobile device suggested a video was playing at the time of the accident.

The Southern train was travelling at approximately 50 mph when the driver spotted Jaiden and sounded the horn. Despite applying the emergency brake, the train could not stop in time and came to a halt about 207 metres beyond the crossing.

Jaiden had been using the crossing regularly since the previous September to commute to Riddlesdown Collegiate secondary school.

Safety Concerns

The footpath crossing has no warning lights or barriers. Investigators noted that "in common with many footpath crossings" users must "make their own decision about whether or not it is safe to cross."

Network Rail had conducted a risk assessment at the location in May 2023. The crossing saw six near misses between November 2018 and February 2023, and a previous fatality occurred in March 2020.

The RAIB recommended that schools provide "targeted and locally relevant railway safety lessons to pupils of all ages" and called for improved "risk mitigation" measures at such crossings.

The Rail Safety and Standards Board responded: "We extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends and all those affected by the tragic death of Jaiden Shehata. We welcome publication of the RAIB investigation. Ensuring safety at level crossings remains a key priority for RSSB and the rail industry, and we will be working collaboratively to consider and implement the RAIB's recommendations."

Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).