Second probe launched into death of Lancashire van driver at Burscough level crossing
An investigation has started into the rail collision, with the British Transport Police and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch carrying out separate investigations to determine the cause of the crash
An investigation has started into a rail collision which claimed the life of a van driver.
British Transport Police officers were called to a level crossing in Burscough, West Lancashire, at 3.18pm on Saturday, August 29.
Fifty-five-year-old Simon Gettings died when the supermarket delivery van he was driving was hit by a Northern train, travelling from Southport to Manchester.
Although an investigation by the British Transport Police (BTP) is ongoing, the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) will carry out its own independent investigations.
Inquiries will determine what left led to the crash, the actions of those involved and any other incidents at the crossing.
The collision resulted in two passengers on the train suffering minor injuries.
Dad-of-two Mr Gettings, a former teacher, was described as having an “unmatched sense of humour, justice and humanity”, who had retired from teaching to spend more time with his family.
"Simon's tragic and untimely death has left an enormous void in the lives of all who knew and loved him," his family said.
The crossing, off Martin Lane and Whitehouse Lane, is manually operated by people who use it.
The RAIB said it would publish its findings, along with any recommendations to make the crossing safer, on its website at a later date.