[locojoe]

FROM THE BT POLICE SITE.
05/02/2008 10:45
POLICE APPEAL AFTER TRAIN WINDSCREEN SMASHED IN CROSSGATES, LEEDS

British Transport Police (BTP) is appealing for any information after a train windscreen was smashed as it was passing through the Crossgates area of Leeds at around 14.35hrs on Sunday 3 February.

The First TransPennine Express service from Newcastle to Manchester Piccadilly was approaching a footbridge at Sutton Approach when an unknown object was thrown at the train from the bridge smashing the windscreen's inner and outer skin; fortunately no-one was injured.

British Transport Police were called and searched the area in question, including but there was no trace of any suspects.

Inspector Tracy Metcalf of British Transport Police said

“It’s vital that we catch the person/ persons involved in this incident. The driver of the train was extremely shocked and very lucky not to have been seriously injured. I cannot emphasise strongly enough the dangers associated with this type of crime.

“Throwing objects at trains is a form of criminal damage and we will arrest anyone found committing such an act.

“There is also potential for a serious accident or injury to be caused to passengers as a result of these offences.I would urge anyone who was in or around that area around the time of the incident and who may witnessed anything or have any information that may help us with our inquiries to contact us in strict confidence on freefone 0800 405040 quoting incident number 222 3/2/2008”.

Edith Rodgers, customer services director at First TransPennine Express, said: “People who throw objects at trains need to realise that they are aiming at people and this is extremely dangerous.

“There is no justification for this kind of behaviour and the railway should not be used as a playground. We will not tolerate anybody who tries to jeopardise the safety of our passengers and staff and are working closely with the British Transport Police to investigate this further.”