The train driver who died following Friday’s rail collision near Bedford has been named as Shaun Burton.
Mr Burton, 60, lost his life after two East Midlands Railway trains collided south of Bedford, near Elstow, on Friday, 19 June.
His family has paid tribute to him and asked for privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
Family tribute
In a short statement, Mr Burton’s family said: “We are devastated by his loss. Our thoughts are also with those affected by this incident.”
The family has also released a photograph of Mr Burton.
British Transport Police said its thoughts remain with Mr Burton’s family and his colleagues at East Midlands Railway.
East Midlands Railway Managing Director Will Rogers described Mr Burton as a dedicated railway professional whose commitment, service and professionalism had touched the lives of colleagues and passengers alike.
Mr Burton joined the company in 2019 and was previously a train manager before becoming a driver.
Mr Rogers said he was known for his “quick wit, kind, generous, and intelligent nature” and was respected throughout the railway industry.
He said Mr Burton was “a trusted advisor” to colleagues and was always willing to share his “wisdom, support and guidance” with others.
Describing the impact of his death, Mr Rogers said it was “a devastating loss” for his partner, family, friends and the wider railway community and that he would be “greatly missed by all who knew him”.
Collision investigation
The collision involved the 4.40pm East Midlands Railway service from Corby to London St Pancras and the 3.50pm service from Nottingham to London St Pancras.
Dozens of people were injured in the crash, with several remaining in hospital.
Read: Nine in critical condition after fatal Bedford train collision
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch, British Transport Police and rail industry investigators are continuing work to establish the circumstances surrounding the collision.
No cause has yet been confirmed.
Rail disruption
The railway between Bedford and Luton remains closed while recovery work continues.
Read: Breaking news: No direct Bedford-to-London trains this week as rail recovery operation begins
Rail passengers travelling through Bedford have been told to expect disruption for most of next week and to travel only if their journey is essential.
Update: This article was updated on 21 June 2026 at 20:30 to add further details about Mr Burton provided by EMR and a comment from Will Rogers.
