Nuneaton train attack - £10,000 reward offered

A cash reward is being offered for information about a sickening act of vandalism which could have had catastrophic consequences.



The driver of a train which was struck by a brick as it passed under a bridge in Nuneaton is lucky to be alive according to British Transport Police (BTP).

The front window of the passenger train, which was travelling from Leicester to Birmingham New Street, was severely damaged when it went under the Haunchwood Road footbridge, close to Vale View in Stockingford.

Damage was caused by the heavy object, believed to have been a brick, which appeared to be tied to the footbridge and left to dangle down.

Following the mindless act, which officers believe could have cost a person their life, BTP are treating the incident as a matter of urgency and are offering £10,000 for information that will lead to the identification and conviction of those responsible.

Investigating officer PC James Ainley, of BTP Coventry, said: "This was an incredibly irresponsible and dangerous act, and it was lucky no-one was injured.

"We believe this was a deliberate act of vandalism that could have had tragic consequences.

"It is beyond belief that anyone could put items in the path of moving trains and we need to trace these mindless vandals before their actions result in serious harm to rail staff or passengers."

The 1516hrs CrossCountry service was travelling at 60mph when it passed under the bridge at around 4pm on Friday, April 13 and was hit by a brick, thought to be suspended from above.

The driver was left shocked and shaken when the window was severely damaged but fortunately the panel remained intact and the train was able to continue on to Birmingham New Street.

When it reached the station it was immediately taken out of service to allow repairs to be carried out to the damaged areas.

PC Ainley added: "I amappealing for anyone who was in the vicinity of Haunchwood Road at the time of the incident and who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously to contact BTP as a matter of urgency."

Anyone with information that could help police with their enquiries can contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting B3/WXA of 18/04/2012.

Alternatively those who think they could be a witness to the incident can call Crimestoppers, which is free froma landline and confidential on 0800 555 111.

The £10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of those responsible.