Initial findings on runaway tube train incident published online

THE RAIL Accident Investigation Branch has published its initial findings on a runaway engineering train that travelled unmanned through six stations on the Northern Line. During its 13-minute journey on August 13 the rogue vehicle travelled southwards fr

THE RAIL Accident Investigation Branch has published its initial findings on a runaway engineering train that travelled unmanned through six stations on the Northern Line.

During its 13-minute journey on August 13 the rogue vehicle travelled southwards from Highgate Station after breaking loose from the tow train and finally came to rest at Warren Street Station, causing Underground staff to divert trains in its path immediately to avoid catastrophe.

The initial findings, published online, state that the train, a 'grinding unit', had had its brakes deactivated to allow it to be towed but at 6.44am a coupling device failed and it started rolling away on its own.

Unable to apply the brakes the crew of the grinding unit jumped off as it passed through Highgate Station.

The report states: "The RAIB's preliminary examination has identified no evidence that the condition of the track or the signalling system contributed to the incident."

A full report will be published after the RAIB completes its investigation.

* For further details and reaction read tomorrow's Ham&High.