At around 13:56 on 26 February 2025, a pedestrian was struck by a train and fatally injured while crossing the railway on Pewsey footpath crossing, situated on the outskirts of Pewsey, in Wiltshire.  The train involved was travelling at about 96 mph (154 km/h) at the time of the accident.

Pewsey footpath crossing provides access for pedestrians between the residential area of Pewsey and countryside to the north of the railway. The crossing has gates on either side of the railway and is provided with signage which instructs users how to cross.  

Our investigation will determine the sequence of events that led to the accident and will include consideration of:

• the factors which may have affected the decisions and actions of the pedestrian as they used the crossing
• any previous incidents at Pewsey footpath crossing and how these may be relevant to this accident
• the management of risk at this crossing and Network Rail’s wider strategy for assessing and mitigating risks at footpath crossings
• any relevant underlying 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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