An investigation is underway after a woman and dog were killed on a railway crossing in Wiltshire last month.
82-year-old Shirley Pope was struck by a Great Western Railway service travelling at nearly 100mph through Pewsey at around 1.56pm on 26 February.
As previously reported, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance attended the scene – but nothing could be done to save her life.
The local resident had been forced to use the pedestrian crossing due to Network Rail works – which have closed the nearby Hollybush Lane bridge.
MP Danny Kruger described the crossing as “dangerous” and stated that the “accident could have been avoided” had the bridge not been closed for repairs since last September.
In a post on social media, he said Network Rail had not responded to him – despite writing to them twice. Mr Kruger added that he’s since written to Andrew Haines, the CEO, for an urgent update on reopening the bridge.
“I will keep pushing for the bridge to be repaired and reopened as soon as possible”, he commented. Adding: “My thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of the lady who was tragically killed.”
A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “We are very sorry to hear about the distressing incident in Pewsey recently and our thoughts and condolences are with those affected.
“The level crossing is frequently assessed including prior to the incident and was found to be compliant with our safety standards.
“Following the incident we have begun a new assessment which includes a nine day census to understand the increased usage as a result of the closure of the footbridge
“While the crossing remains compliant with our safety standards we are considering what other measures should be implemented in the short term while the bridge is closed for repairs.”
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch have launched an investigation into the incident.
In a statement, a spokesperson said: “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. 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.”
