Train forced to make emergency stop after burning car placed on line at Limavady

Police are appealing for information after a car was set on fire and abandoned on railway tracks at a level crossing on the Limestone Road, Limavady last night, Monday April 12th.

The incident occurred at around 9pm on the railway line between Derry/Londonderry and Coleraine. A train with passengers on board was forced to make an emergency stop.

Chief Inspector MclIdowney described the incident as ‘reckless endangerment to life’ and praised the ‘heroics of our colleagues in the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service’.

“Our investigation is currently underway to establish the circumstances into this incident. We are appealing for any witnesses to contact police on quoting serial number 1945 of the 12/04/21.”

The railway line was closed overnight but has reopened a short time ago on Tuesday morning.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has expressed her deep concern as Translink confirmed there has been an incident involving a burning car on the train track near Bellarena.

On Monday night Minister Mallon commented:

“I am deeply concerned and troubled by the incident near Bellarena this evening. The train travelling from Belfast to Derry was brought thankfully to a stop by the train driver who acted quickly before the train reached the burning car on the track.

“I am so relieved to hear that passengers and crew are all safe. 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.”