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Inquest Rules Stratford Tube Death Accidental as Coroner Prepares Safety Warning to TfL

The coroner will issue a prevention of future deaths report to TfL, citing vigilance gaps linked to automated operation.

Overview

  • A jury concluded that Brian Mitchell, 72, died accidentally after falling from Stratford’s Jubilee line platform on Boxing Day 2023.
  • The jury found he was struck by four trains, despite some reports suggesting seven.
  • The Rail Accident Investigation Branch reported Mr Mitchell had 272 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood, more than three times the drink‑drive limit.
  • Investigators said operators did not detect anything unusual as trains arrived and none applied the emergency brake.
  • Evidence at the inquest included a driver mistaking the body for an inflatable doll and another not braking due to shock, and the coroner will file a prevention of future deaths report that TfL says it will answer with actions.