British Transport Police (BTP) investigators are appealing for the public’s help after a passenger forced a train to make an emergency stop before making off down the tracks.
Officers have released a CCTV image of a man they believe may have information about the incident, which happened between Penmaenmawr and Conwy on Saturday, 8 October 2011.
Investigating officer PC Neal Lindskog, who is based at BTP Rhyl, said:
“A man boarded the 0709hrs Birmingham International to Holyhead service at Llandudno Junction at around 10.10am.
“This was an express train passing several small stations before stopping at Bangor.
“When the train passed Conwy rail station, the man approached the train guard and asked why it didn’t stop there. He was told it was an express service and the next stop was Bangor.
“The man then stated he was getting off anyway and a few moments later he hit the emergency stop button. The train came to a halt between Conwy and Penmaenmawr stations.
“When the guard walked back through the train he saw the man forcing the train doors open before jumping off and running down the track.
“This man’s actions were foolish in the extreme. Not only did he delay the train, he took an enormous risk by jumping onto the tracks.
“If a train had been coming in the opposite direction, he would have been killed instantly.”
PC Lindskog added: “We have identified a person we would like to speak to in connection with this incident.
“He is described as white, in his late teens or early 20s, around 5ft 7in, of slim to medium build and was wearing a dark tracksuit with yellow markings.
“I would urge anyone who recognises this person, or who has any information in relation to this investigation, to come forward.”
Anyone with any information about the incident should contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B9/WUA of 07/11/11. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
