Shocking footage shows train narrowly missing individuals in County Derry tunnel

Footage showing a train travelling at speed, narrowly missing two people in a County Derry tunnel, has been released by Translink.

The footage from the train shows the train entering the tunnel close to Downhill Strand. A person, thought to be a beach lifeguard, is seen waving at the train before it enters the tunnel. Two people are then seen running from the train before it narrowly passes them by.

https://youtu.be/h4DcxW3zwmo

Translink revealed today that 47 incidents of pedestrian trespassing have been recorded on the Derry line this year.

Mark Atkinson, Head of Civil Engineering at Translink has appealed to parents to remind their children of the dangers of playing close to train tracks.

He said: “There are obviously serious risks associated with trespassing on the rail network-life changing injuries or even death. Our trains travel at speeds of up to 90 miles per hour and if a driver has to apply the emergency brakes, it will take over 900 metres for the train to stop. In other words, not even the fastest athlete on the planet could outrun a train. “During holiday periods, incidents of pedestrian trespass on the rail network unfortunately often increase. The network can look like a handy shortcut or a good place to play, but the risks are just not worth it.

“Aside from the very obvious risks to life and wellbeing associated with trespass, every time we receive reports of pedestrians on the rail network, we have to apply a ‘caution’ or speed restriction of 5mph to trains operating in the area until we are assured that the area is clear. This results in delays to services and impacts our passengers.

“We work closely with PSNI neighbourhood policing teams around Northern Ireland throughout the year to identify and prosecute trespassers. We would appeal to parents, guardians and teachers to remind young people in their care to never use the tracks as a shortcut or a playground,” said Mr Atkinson.