Police release images after fire extinguisher thrown at train window

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British Transport Police officers have launched an investigation and issued a stark warning after a fire extinguisher thrown out of a train in the Exminster area of Devon smashed the driver’s window of a passing train.

The incident happened around 8.35pm on Friday 24 June as the 1739hrs Penzance to London Paddington and the 1736 London Paddington to Paignton services passed each other in the Exminster area.

A fire extinguisher was removed from carriage A in the Paignton-bound service and thrown out of a window in the vestibule area of the train towards the passing London-bound train.

It smashed the outer skin of the driver’s window, causing considerable damage, but thankfully did not smash the inner skin.

BtPTrainWindow1
As a result, the damaged train was delayed but nobody was injured.

The driver was uninjured but was left extremely shaken by the incident which police said could have had fatal consequences.

As a result, the damaged train was delayed and had to be taken out of service when it reached Bristol Temple Meads station, causing inconvenience to passengers.

BTP is appealing for anyone with any information about the incident, or who saw anyone acting suspiciously on board the Paignton-bound train, to come forward.

PC Stewart Warne, the investigating officer, said: “This dangerous incident left the driver understandably shaken and caused the service to be terminated early.

“This was an extremely reckless incident, the consequences of which could have been fatal if the object had gone through the inner skin of the passing train’s windscreen.

“Offenders who throw objects at trains not only risk seriously injuring rail staff and other passengers – they are risking a substantial prison term.

“I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened, or who can help identify those responsible, to contact us as a matter of urgency.”

A spokesperson for First Great Western trains said: “We completely support the BTP in their investigation of this very serious incident, and we urge any of our passengers who may have information to come forward.”

Anyone with information about the incident should contact BTP on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B4/WWA of 30/06/2011 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

3 COMMENTS

  1. I trust the culprit when apprehended will be charged with attempted murder, and can expect to spend the next 20 years in custody in one of Her Majesty’s hotels! Or will the said offender get away with a caution……………..

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