Exeter man, 23 dead after car hit by train

Police now believe his death is linked with 3 other incidents.

British Transport Police have confirmed a 23 year old man from Exeter died after the car he was in was hit by a train at Stoke Canon. 

In a statement they said: "Shortly after 6am this morning (28/03) officers were called to the railway close to Stoke Canon in Exeter after reports a vehicle was struck by a train at a level crossing. Officers from British Transport Police attended alongside paramedics from the South Western Ambulance Service, however a person was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Initial enquiries have identified the person as a 23-year-old man from Exeter, his family have been informed. The man’s death is not currently being treated as suspicious, however officers continue to make enquiries to establish the full circumstances leading to the vehicle and man being struck by a train.
Following this incident, three further incidents were brought to the attention of officers within the proximity of Stoke Canon. This includes a train striking objects at Newton St Cyres and at Crannaford, as well as a line side fire at Eggesford. All four incidents are being treated as linked, although at this time officers are not tracing anyone else in connection.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch have been notified. Furthermore, the Independent Office for Police Conduct have been informed."

National Rail Enquiries expect disruption on the Exester St Davids Line to continue until 8pm. Some trains are cancelled and others are delayed. Tickets are being accepted on on SWR services and some Stagecoach buses. They say "limited" road transport is in place. Updates here. 

Disruption is expected to trains on the Tarka Line (Exmouth to Barnstaple) until the end of service. Updates here.