At about 16:42 hrs on 22 August 2023, an electric locomotive operated by Freightliner, which was travelling on a test run between Nuneaton and Crewe, passed a signal at red (danger) on the approach to Stafford Trent Valley No.1 Junction.
The locomotive then ran through points as it came to a stand at the junction. The position where the locomotive stopped conflicted with a route that had been set for another train, although neither that train nor any other trains were in the immediate vicinity at the time. No one was injured and the locomotive did not derail, although some damage was sustained to the points which were run through.
Our investigation will seek to identify the sequence of events which led to the incident. It will also consider:
- the actions of those involved and anything that may have influenced them
- the management of drivers working for Freightliner, including their training and competence
- the configuration and performance of the signalling equipment and locomotive involved
- any underlying management factors.
Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry or by the industry's regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.
We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.
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