Tube drivers told to pay closer attention after pensioner killed on tracks

The East London coroner warned that automated Jubilee Line operators were not paying sufficient attention after 72-year-old Brian Mitchell was struck and later died at Stratford station, and has issued a report with recommendations to the Mayor, Transport for London and the Department for Transport.

An East London coroner has warned that train operators must pay closer attention after a passenger was struck and later died at Stratford station. The coroner noted that Jubilee Line services use Automatic Train Operation, so operators are expected to monitor the tracks and intervene when they see a person on the rails. Officials reported that several operators did not spot the person in time and that one operator misidentified the presence as an inflatable doll. A report with recommendations was issued to the Mayor of London, Transport for London and the Department for Transport. Key facts: - The passenger was 72-year-old Brian Mitchell and died at Stratford station after being struck by trains on the Jubilee Line. - Jubilee Line trains use Automatic Train Operation; operators are expected to monitor the tracks and override automation if necessary. - The East London coroner said at least three operators did not notice the person before them, and that one operator misidentified the presence as an inflatable doll. - The coroner warned of a risk of future deaths and recommended measures to detect people on the tracks and training for operators; the report was sent to Sir Sadiq Khan, Transport for London and the Department for Transport. Summary: The coroner found the initial collision was likely avoidable and warned there is a risk of further deaths unless measures and training are improved. The report with recommendations has been issued to Sir Sadiq Khan, Transport for London and the Department for Transport. Undetermined at this time.