The train driver, unaware of the passenger’s proximity, pulled away from the platform. As the train began to move, the trapped passenger was forced to run alongside it before losing their footing and being dragged. The train travelled 60 metres at speeds of up to 11 mph before passengers activated the emergency door release handles, alerting the driver to stop.
Investigators found that the train’s obstacle detection system failed to register the passenger’s hand because objects thinner than 30mm, such as fingers, are not consistently detected. The driver had performed safety checks using CCTV monitors before closing the doors, but the passenger had not been visible at the time.
TfL’s general manager for London Overground, Rory O’Neill, expressed regret over the incident:
“We’re sorry that our customer experienced this distressing incident. Safety is our top priority, and we have fully co-operated with the RAIB’s investigation.”
Following the accident, Arriva Rail London carried out its own investigation and introduced additional safety measures. These include refresher briefings for drivers and awareness campaigns to caution passengers against obstructing closing doors. Videos have been published on social media and across stations to highlight the dangers.
This incident serves as a reminder of the risks involved in attempting to board trains after doors have started to close.
