London Overground train driver suspected of being under the influence at time of crash at Enfield Town Station, reports James Cracknell

The aftermath of the train crash at Enfield Town Station on 12th October 2021 (credit London Fore Brigade) — *The aftermath of the train crash at Enfield Town Station on 12th October (credit London Fire Brigade)*

The driver of a train which failed to stop in time when arriving at Enfield Town Station has been arrested on suspicion of being under the influence of drugs.

The incident on the morning of Tuesday 12th October resulted in the London Overground train crashing through the buffers, coming off the tracks and almost smashing into a passenger walkway – injuring two people who were on the train.

The 39-year-old train driver, who lives in Essex, was arrested by British Transport Police on Monday “on suspicion of endangering the safety of the railway and being unfit to work on a transport system through drink or drugs”, according to a spokesperson.

A tabloid newspaper has reported that the drug involved was cocaine, although this has not been officially confirmed by police.

The train driver has now been released on bail until 19^th November and detectives continue to make enquiries into the incident.

A spokesperson for Arriva Rail London, the driver’s employer, confirmed he is now suspended. They said: “We cannot comment on this criminal case, but we can confirm that the driver involved in the low-speed collision at Enfield Town Station has been suspended following a positive test for drugs or alcohol.

“We also continue to provide every assistance to the investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB). We have a zero-tolerance policy to drugs and alcohol and will always put the safety of our customers and colleagues first.”

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