13/04/2021

Investigation Launches After Burning Car Abandoned On Railway Track

An investigation has launched after a burning car was abandoned on a railway track near Bellarena.

The incident happened at around 7.45pm on Monday, 12 April, and the train driver was forced to make an emergency stop.

The line was closed following the incident, however it has since reopened.

Translink Group chief executive Chris Conway said: "The train driver reacted quickly and thankfully brought the train to a stop safely, short of where the car was burning.

"The train crew ensured all safety procedures were followed with the incident swiftly reported and emergency services attended the scene.

"The train returned to Coleraine Station, where six passengers got off safely for onward connections by road. It is very fortunate that no-one has been injured in this incident."

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: "It is unimaginable to think what could have happened this evening had it not been for the prompt action of the driver and crew.

"I want to express my gratitude to them and to the emergency services. I would urge anyone with any information about this incident to contact the PSNI."




Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

08 January 2002
Attack on train driver condemned
A train driver has been injured after a being struck by a brick on a railway line in County Down. The brick was thrown through the window of his train at Marino Halt on the Bangor side of Holywood around 8.30pm on Monday, January 7. The driver was taken to Belfast City Hospital with extensive cuts to his face.
05 June 2023
Up To 20 Involved In Fight At Ballymoney Train Station
Police are appealing for information following a fight at a Balleymoney Train Station in County Antrim. Up to 20 people were reportedly fighting on a train in the Seymour Street area at around 9.45pm on Saturday. A glass bottle was thrown and smashed and a 14-year-old boy who was injured was taken to hospital.
30 September 2021
New Train Carriages Introduced As Part Of £66m Investment
New train carriages have been introduced into NI's rail services for the first time as part of a £66million project to transform railway infrastructure.
16 April 2018
Female Conductor Indecently Assaulted On Train Journey
A female conductor has been indecently assaulted on a train journey from L'Derry to Belfast, according to the PSNI. The incident happened after a woman intervened after a group of male passengers became rowdy on Saturday, 14 April. The woman was allegedly grabbed by one of the men and verbally abused.
08 November 2017
Renewed Appeal For Missing Man Peter Quigley
Police have issued a fresh appeal for information to trace a man who went missing four years ago. Peter Quigley from Newry is believed to have been last seen at Moira train station on 26 September 2013 at around 11am.