Emergency Response to Doll Mistaken as Child on Train Tracks in Swindon
Today, a child-like doll found on the railway line caused a major stir, prompting a swift emergency reaction.
False Alarm
A call reporting a casualty on the tracks in Swindon, Wiltshire, led to a rapid deployment of 999 crews just after 1 pm.
Five paramedics, donned in high-visibility gear and hard hats, stood ready for railway access, prepared for a potentially grim discovery.
Multi-Agency Involvement
Notably, Wiltshire Air Ambulance landed at the nearby MINI plant, and approximately ten officers from Wiltshire Police, British Transport Police, and Network Rail incident response officers were present on the scene.
Upon realizing that the “casualty” was actually a child-like doll, emergency responders were no longer needed.
Unique Details
The doll, resembling a five-year-old child, wore blue jeans with a floral pattern, a pink flowery jumper, and black shoes. Its head was adorned with a navy blue hat and long, curly blonde hair, creating a convincing illusion.
Interestingly, a cigarette lighter hung from the doll’s jeans, adding to the peculiar discovery.
Resumption of Services
After the 999 crews were stood down around 1.35 pm, the railway line reopened for regular operations.
British Transport Police confirmed the incident, stating it was a false alarm involving a mannequin. Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service also addressed the situation, clarifying it was a false alarm, with services back to normal by 1.36 pm.
Service Update
Great Western Railway issued an update on their website, informing passengers that all lines were open following earlier disruptions between Swindon and Didcot Parkway. While services were gradually returning to normal, delays were anticipated until 3:00 pm on July 19.
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