Van Driver’s Crazy Stunt on Level Crossing Sparks Near Train Catastrophe
A van driver has narrowly avoided causing a deadly train crash after dangerously edging onto a level crossing in front of an oncoming train. William Backhouse, 30, from Carlisle, risked lives during a routine package delivery in Cumbria.
How the Near Miss Went Down
On 13 September 2025, Backhouse was delivering parcels in Braystones when he ignored safety protocols. Instead of calling the signaller, he manually lifted a gated level crossing barrier — a serious no-no. After dropping off his parcels, he recklessly edged his van onto the tracks while a train was barreling through.
CCTV captured the terrifying moment the train smashed into the front corner of his van, sending debris flying across the railway. Miraculously, nobody was injured and the train suffered only minor damage.
Serious Sentence for Dangerous Driving
Backhouse pleaded guilty to driving dangerously and endangering passenger safety. On 26 February, Ipswich Magistrates’ Court hit him with an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for one year, plus a year-long driving ban and a £1,500 compensation fine.
A British Transport Police spokesperson said: “Backhouse’s actions showed blatant disregard for safety, endangering lives and disrupting the railway. This sentence reflects the seriousness of his offence.”
This incident is a stark warning: Never take risks at level crossings. The consequences can be fatal — and the law will hit you hard.
