Collision between a train and a car at Hoghton level crossing

Investigation into a collision between a passenger train and a car at Hoghton automatic half-barrier level crossing, near Preston, Lancashire, 25 June 2026.

Hoghton automatic half-barrier level crossing (courtesy of Network Rail).

At around 08:48 on 25 June 2026, the 07:51 Northern passenger service from Colne to Preston struck a car on Hoghton automatic half-barrier level crossing, which is situated between Preston and Blackburn. The driver of the car was fatally injured in the accident and a child who was a passenger in the car was also seriously injured. No injuries were caused to anyone on the train.

Hoghton level crossing is equipped with road traffic lights and an audible alarm for pedestrians, both of which are designed to activate automatically as trains approach. A short time after the lights and alarm activate, half- barriers at both sides of the crossing will automatically lower, to block the left-hand side of the road.  

The evidence available to RAIB shows that the train had passed a green (proceed) signal as it approached the crossing. RAIB’s preliminary examination also found that the road traffic lights and audible alarm at the crossing had not been activated, and that the half-barriers were raised.

Our investigation will determine the sequence of events that led to the accident and will include consideration of:

Our investigation is independent of any investigation by the railway industry or by the industry’s regulator, the Office of Rail and Road.

We will publish our findings, including any recommendations to improve safety, at the conclusion of our investigation. This report will be available on our website.