Car overturns at Acton Central level crossing on Churchfield Road, injuring woman

A car crashed through the level crossing next to Acton Central station and flipped onto its roof beside the railway line. A woman who was nearby was hurt by flying debris.

British Transport Police (BTP) were called to the crossing on Churchfield Road in Acton at about 10.30pm on Monday 28 September. The car went through the crossing, hit the barriers and overturned.

The woman was taken to hospital. BTP said her injuries were not life-threatening or life-changing.

Driver arrested

The driver, a man, was taken to hospital and arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving. Police say he was then also arrested on suspicion of drink driving, criminal damage and endangering the safety of the railway.

He has not been charged, and police enquiries are continuing.

Footage shared with UB1UB2 shows the aftermath on the crossing. People can be heard shouting at others to get off the tracks in case a train came through.

Churchfield Road was closed while emergency services dealt with the crash and has since reopened.

A busy crossing in the heart of Acton

The Churchfield Road level crossing is right next to Acton Central station, which is on the London Overground's Mildmay line between Richmond and Stratford. Trains run often through the day and evening, and the crossing is used by drivers, cyclists and many people on foot.

Churchfield Road is a popular local street, with independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants on both sides of the railway. It is often busy at night.

Level crossings across Britain are policed by BTP. Network Rail, which owns the railway's infrastructure, regularly warns road users never to go around or through barriers once the warning lights start.

Appeal for witnesses

BTP are asking anyone who saw the crash, or who has dashcam footage that could help, to come forward.

You can text BTP on 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40, quoting reference 836 of 28 September. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always call 999.