Burning car left on railway line in Northern Ireland

Published 13th Apr 2021

Politicians in Northern Ireland say they are "deeply concerned and troubled" after a car was set on fire and left across a train track last night.

The train driver managed to avoid hitting it between Belfast and Londonderry around 9pm.

The six passengers on board were not injured.

Translink Group chief executive Chris Conway said: "The train driver reacted quickly and thankfully brought the train to a stop safely, short of where the car was burning.

"The train crew ensured all safety procedures were followed with the incident swiftly reported and emergency services attended the scene.

"The train returned to Coleraine Station, where six passengers got off safely for onward connections by road. It is very fortunate that no-one has been injured in this incident."

Last week a bus was hijacked and set on fire after rioting broke out in Belfast.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon condemned the latest incident, which she said left her "deeply concerned and troubled''.

"I am so relieved to hear that passengers and crew are all safe,'' Ms Mallon said.

"It is unimaginable to think what could have happened this evening had it not been for the prompt action of the driver and crew.

"I want to express my gratitude to them and to the emergency services. I would urge anyone with any information about this incident to contact the PSNI.''

Mr Conway said Translink would be working with the PSNI to investigate the incident, adding: We utterly condemn this attack which had the potential for very serious consequences.''