| Warrington rail crash | |
|---|---|
| Details | |
| Date | 29 June 1867 |
| Time | 11:35 |
| Location | Walton Junction, near Warrington Bank Quay railway station |
| Country | England |
| Rail line | London and North Western Railway |
| Cause | Points incorrectly set |
| Statistics | |
| Trains | 2 |
| Passengers | 300 |
| Deaths | 8 |
| Injuries | 33 |
| List of UK rail accidents by year | |
The Warrington rail crash occurred on 29 June 1867 at Walton Junction, south of Warrington Bank Quay station. The 10:23 from Liverpool to London collided with a coal train, killing 8 people[1] and injuring 33 more.
The passenger train was running 10 minutes late and left Warrington Bank Quay station at 11:35. Approaching Walton Junction the driver saw the coal train ahead of him, being shunted onto the Chester line but 'did not slacken speed, not doubting that the way would be clear' but when the points were reached the passenger train was diverted off the main line and into the rear of the coal train. Five people were killed at the scene, three others died later of their injuries, and 33 were injured. The pointsman in charge of the points was later charged with manslaughter.
The coroner gave the following verdict "We are unanimously of opinion that the deceased came to their deaths by neglect of duty on the part of John Rowson, pointsman, and at the same time we wish to recommend to the railway company the adoption of a new system of signalling and points at Walton Junction."
The Board of Trade enquiry recommended the interlocking of points and signals.[2]