Teens electrocuted on Scots rail tracks left with life

The teenagers both remain in a serious condition in hospital.

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Two teenagers are in hospital with life-changing injuries after suffering electric shocks on Scots railway lines.

Emergency crews were called to an incident between Carfin and Holytown in North Lanarkshire at 9pm on Saturday, July 29. British Transport Police (BTP) attended and confirmed a 14-year-old boy had climbed on top of a stationary freight train on Saturday evening and touched the overhead line.

He was rushed to hospital for treatment, where he remains in a serious condition. The following day, a 17-year-old boy was found by a member of the public on a footpath close to the line at Murrayfield, Edinburgh at around 10.40pm.

He is believed to have suffered an electric shock after going on to the tracks. His injuries are also said to be life-changing and he is in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

British Transport Police have issued an urgent safety warning to help avoid any further tragic incidents on the railways.

Detective Chief Inspector Marc Francey said: “In just over 24 hours this weekend two young people have sustained horrific injuries after taking unnecessary risks on the railway. First and foremost, our thoughts are with their loved ones who are being supported by officers.

“It should be abundantly clear from these two tragic incidents that the railway is not a playground. Modern trains can almost silently reach speeds of 125mph, and the overheard lines are powered by extremely high currents of electricity 24 hours day, which can kill instantly or result in catastrophic, life-changing injuries.

“With the school holidays upon us I would urge parents and carers to sit down with their children as soon as possible. Help us to prevent further tragedies by ensuring you know where you’re children are and talk to them about the dangers of the railway.

“Please, have that conversation with those in your care and encourage them to stay off the tracks.”

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