Train driver saves toddler running along railway line


Train driver saves toddler running along railway line
Train driver saves toddler running along railway line



A train driver has been hailed a hero after rescuing a toddler running along a railway line.

The boy jumped off the Glasgow to Edinburgh train in Wester Hailes and was left behind on the platform before his mother could get him.

The trainpulled off and the boy climbed onto the tracks and tried to chase after it as it pulled away.

See also: Train slams into tour bus in Thailand killing three

See also: Tourist killed by train while hunting for mythical monster


The four-year-old was spotted by Martin McManus, driver of a ScotRail train travelling in the opposite direction between Wester Hailes and Kingsknowe, which are a mile apart.

Off-duty Police Scotland officers on that train took the boy to Kirknewton, where he was handed to other officers who reunited him with his mother at Wester Hailes.

Speaking to the Scotsman, Martin said:
'I saw the wee lad running along the track crying, so I stopped my train and made sure it was safe.

'I went out and picked him up and brought him back in. He was looking for his mummy and was just asking if his mummy was on the train.

"It could have been really tragic so I was lucky I spotted him but it's all just part of my job."

One Facebook user, Bonnie Nicolson, praised him and posted a picture of him, writing: "Here is the amazing train driver who saved a little boy's life today when he noticed the little one on the tracks on the outskirts of Edinburgh and managed to stop the train on time.

"I was so traumatised I forgot to ask his name but what a hero."

According to the Metro, a ScotRail Alliance spokeswoman said: "Our staff are trained to look out for vulnerable passengers, and on this occasion our driver took swift action to ensure the child's safety."

Related video:



Chicago Train Driver 'Dozed Off' Before Crash
Chicago Train Driver 'Dozed Off' Before Crash


Advertisement