Investigation as body found alongside railway line ‘may not have been struck by train’

An investigation is underway after a body was found alongside the railway line in Wiltshire.

Emergency services were called to the scene near Hay Lane, Royal Wootton Bassett, following the discovery of a body at around 9.30am this morning (25 February).

Wiltshire 999s understands the person’s death is being treated as “unexplained”. An investigation will now commence to establish the circumstances.

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It is not yet clear if the person was struck by a train. All railway lines in the area will remain closed until the probe concludes.

The British Transport Police (BTP) and Wiltshire Police are attending the incident.

A spokesperson for the BTP said: “We were called to the line near Swindon at 9.35am this morning (25 February) following reports of a casualty on the tracks.

“Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person has been pronounced dead at the scene.

“Officers are currently working to identify the deceased and establish the full circumstances behind their death.”

A formal announcement on the GWR website reads: “Due to the police dealing with an incident near the railway between Swindon and Bristol Temple Meads all lines are blocked.

“Disruption is expected until 13:00 25/02.

“Train services between Bristol Temple Meads and Swindon may be cancelled, delayed or revised.”

Trains running through Wiltshire from Bristol Parkway are also affected.

The incident does not relate to the bridge strike at Whitehouse Bridge. There are no delays in the area, and the road has been clear since 10am.

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