Police officer hit by train in 'devastating' incident while trying to save distressed man
David Lally
The officer has been rushed to hospital for treatment
A police officer is in a serious condition after being hit by a train while attempting to save a distressed man who was on the railway lines.
Nottinghamshire police were called to reports of a distressed man in a residential area in Balderton on Thursday August 24 at around 7pm.
While trying to help the man, the officer was hit by a train and was left with “serious injuries”.
The injured officer was transported to Queen’s Medical Centre for treatment.
The distressed man was also injured in the incident but police believe his injuries are not life-threatening.
He was also transported to hospital.
Chief Constable for Nottinghamshire Police Kate Meynell said: “This is a truly devastating incident that has left one of our officers very poorly in hospital. We are supporting his family and ensuring that he gets all the care and support he needs.
“This was also extremely traumatic for all those who attended the scene, some of whom provided immediate medical assistance while the ambulance was on its way.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:“I would like to personally thank them for their quick and dedicated response to this incident.
“Officers and police staff put themselves in danger every day to keep the public safe and from harm and I personally want to say how eternally grateful and proud I am of them all.”
British Transport Police have opened and are leading an investigation into the incident.
The village of Balderton lies in Nottinghamshire and has a population of around 10,000 according to 2011 census data.
Queen’s Medical Centre, where the officer is being treated, is a teaching hospital managed by Nottingham University NHS Trust.
It was the largest hospital in England until it was passed by the Royal London Hospital in 2012.
However, it remains the largest trauma centre in the country and has as many as 1,300 beds.
The medical facility is located roughly 26 miles from the village of Balderton.