British Transport Police (BTP) have condemned the actions of a man who crossed station tracks and ran in front of a train in a bid to catch it.
Officers have released CCTV footage of the incident at Crosskeys station in an effort to identify the man trespassing on the tracks. They are calling on anyone in the wider Newport area who recognises the man to get in touch.
Inspector Mike Jones, officer in charge at BTP Cardiff, said: “I am genuinely appalled to see that, despite our constant warnings, some people are still willing to risk their lives by trespassing on the tracks.
“This shocking footage clearly shows the man pass around the front of the train, in the direction it is about to move, to try and get on board.
“I am absolutely dismayed to see people are willing to risk their lives for the sake of a few seconds rather than waiting for the next train. It is utter stupidity.”
The incident took place at 8pm on Wednesday, May 15, as the 7.40pm Ebbw Vale to Cardiff Central service was preparing to depart Crosskeys station.
A man jumped from the opposing platform, walked across the tracks and around the front of the train onto the other platform. He then tried to open the doors to the train but is unable to, and the train moves away.
Insp Jones added: “I cannot emphasise enough the dangers associated with this type of stupid behaviour. It is simply not worth it.
“I am now asking for the public’s help to identify this man and would urge anyone who has any information in relation to this incident to come forward.”
Anyone with any information about the incident should contact British Transport Police on Freefone 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B7/WA of 30/05/2013. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Update
A 14-year-old boy from Newport has been interviewed by police.
A BTP spokesman said: “Following a media appeal, a 14-year-old boy from Newport has been interviewed and reported for an offence of trespass in relation to an incident at Crosskeys rail station on Wednesday, 15 May.”
Darwinism in action, the only issue being the delay to everyone travelling had the fool gone squish!