Investigation and inquest
On 24th November 2015 I commenced an investigation into the death of Daniel Campbell aged 25 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the Inquest on 21st March 2017 with the following narrative conclusion:-
On 24.11.15 at approximately 12.00 hours, Daniel Campbell took his life by stepping into the path of a high speed train between Spittal and Scremerston, Northumberland. At a time when his mind and capacity for rational thinking were both affected by illness, and as a result he sustained multiple injuries from which he died instantly.
Circumstances of the death
As described in the above narrative.
The published report provides this section by reference to another part of the report.
Coroner’s concerns
Disrepair of walls, fences or other barriers:-
Photographs of the location where the death occurred, provided by British Transport Police show that various sections of fencing and walls separating the public footpath from the railway line were broken, missing or in disrepair. While more substantial fencing is unlikely to prevent the trespass and death of a person who is determined to take his own life, insubstantial fencing or barriers create an easy opportunity for persons who might not otherwise act impulsively on fleeting suicidal thoughts after they have passed.