Train victim was 19-year-old Brierfield man

The East Lancashire Coroner’s office has this morning confirmed that the person struck and killed by a train in Burnley on Friday was a 19-year-old man from Brierfield.

The man’s next-of-kin have been informed but a formal identification has yet to take place. An inquest is due to be opened on Wednesday.

British Transport Police officers and firefighters from Nelson conducted a search of the line near Brierfield at around 3-30pm on Friday, after the train driver reported the tragic incident.

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A spokesman for British Transport Police said: “Our officers were called to Brierfield Railway Station, Nelson, shortly after 3pm on Friday following reports of a person being struck by a train.

“Colleagues from Lancashire Police and North West Ambulance Service also attended but a man was pronounced dead at the scene.

“The incident is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”

Following the death, the Samaritans of Pendle, Burnley, Craven and Rossendale announced they would be working with Network Rail to help support passengers and staff affected by the incident.

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A number of volunteers were at the station on Monday, handing out information cards and raising awareness of the support available 24/7 from the Samaritans.

Director Mr Ian Hartley said: “We were very saddened to hear about the death on the railway at Brierfield.

“Samaritans’ trained volunteers are available 24/7 to offer confidential, non-judgemental support to anyone struggling to cope or feeling suicidal. We believe that talking about your situation can help alleviate despair.”

Anyone who is feeling down, depressed, anxious or stressed can call the Samaritans on 01282 69492901282 694929 or 08457 90 90 9008457 90 90 90, email [email protected], or visit us at 15-17 Market Square, Nelson.