A MAN who jumped to his death in front of an express train from a station platform was named yesterday.
Joseph Leonard Thackery, 54, died instantly when he was hit by the train, which was travelling through Durham station, on Tuesday.
Durham police revealed his identity after tracing relatives. A force spokesman said yesterday that Mr Thackery hailed from the Durham area, but at the time of his death was of no fixed address.
He was said to have been a voluntary patient at the County Hospital, a psychiatric unit, near the station.
Passengers waiting on the station platform were treated for shock after witnessing the incident involving a GNER service from Glasgow to Kings Cross.
Mr Thackery appeared to jump from the southbound platform as the train, which was not stopping at Durham, passed through the station at about 60mph.
British Transport Police are investigating but have said Mr Thackery's death was not suspicious.
No date has yet been fixed for the opening of inquest proceedings by the North Durham coroner.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article