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Coroner Urges Pictorial Gate Warnings After Runner Killed at Formby Level Crossing

The inquest found the crossing was operating correctly, with the victim likely failing to hear the klaxon due to loud music on his headphones.

Overview

  • Senior coroner Anita Bhardwaj issued a Prevention of Future Death report following the 3 February inquest into the death of 29-year-old Sam Dudley.
  • Evidence showed Dudley entered Hoggs Hill level crossing in Formby at 11:07am on 24 August 2025 while red lights flashed and the klaxon sounded.
  • CCTV captured him stepping onto the tracks, appearing startled on seeing the train, and attempting to jump back moments before impact.
  • His recovered phone displayed a warning that his music volume was too loud, and the coroner concluded he likely did not hear the audible alarm.
  • The report recommends clear pictorial warnings on the pedestrian gate before the decision point—such as a crossed-out earphones symbol—to better alert users who may not hear sound cues.