Family may get probe into crossing tragedy

Monday 8 March 2010

Family may get probe into crossing tragedy

An inquiry could be held into the death of a teenager killed by a train at a level crossing.

Robert Milloy, 18, died on January 23 last year just 200 yards from his home in Gatehead, Ayrshire.

It’s believed he missed warning lights and sirens when he wandered through the half-barriers with his hood up and listening to his MP3 player.

The farm worker was walking home for lunch when he was struck by the 50mph passenger service. The former Grange Academy pupil’s family were told a Fatal Accident Inquiry would not be held but now the Crown Office has said it is “under consideration” after “additional information” came to light. Kilmarnock and Loudoun MSP Willie Coffey has called for the investigation. He is concerned that the barriers and warning systems at the level crossing are designed for car drivers and provide much less warning for pedestrians. He said: “I am sure this will be welcomed by Mr Milloy’s family and by all those who use the Gatehead crossing as pedestrians. “Safety for pedestrians should be given the same consideration as that for cars and vehicles at level crossings.” Robert’s family including dad Rab later buried him in the back garden so he would always be close to them. Robert’s wicker coffin was taken from the funeral home in Kilmarnock to the garden in a tractor and trailer. A spokeswoman for the Crown Office said: “We can confirm that the procurator fiscal in Kilmarnock has received a report in connection with the death of a 18-year-old man in Gateside on 23 January 2009. “In considering the circumstances of the death Crown Counsel did consider the question whether or not there should be a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI), and on the basis of the information then available concluded that this case was not one in which it would be appropriate to hold an FAI. “On receiving additional information the area procurator fiscal requested further inquiries be made and the matter remains under consideration. “We will continue to keep the family informed of progress.”

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