Police firearms officers have shot and killed a bull after it went onto the railway and posed ‘a serious and immediate risk’.
The incident caused trains to be suspended while North Yorkshire Police, British Transport Police and Network Rail dealt with the incident.
They were alerted at 9.13am today (Wednesday) to reports of a bull on the tracks between Brayton level crossing and Selby station.
Train companies were alerted and at first proceeded with caution but later sections of the line were closed to protect passengers, rail staff and members of the public.
Livestock handlers were called to the scene. A drone was used to find and monitor the animal.
A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “Despite sustained efforts, the bull could not be safely contained or directed away from the live railway.
“Given the continuing danger posed by the animal’s proximity to moving trains and critical rail infrastructure, firearms officers humanely dispatched the bull a short time ago.”
There were no reports of anyone being injured. Rail services have now resumed.
‘Exceptionally complex situation’
Inspector Rob Campbell, Neighbourhood Policing, Selby, said: “This was an exceptionally complex situation and we understand the concern it may cause.
“Our duty is to protect life and keep people safe. Together with BTP, Network Rail and livestock handlers, we tried to contain and move the animal away from danger.
“Unfortunately, the bull continued to pose a serious and immediate risk on the railway.
“As a last resort, and with the appropriate legal authority in place, specialist officers humanely dispatched the animal to prevent any wider risk to the public.
“We’re grateful to passengers and local residents for their patience during the disruption.”
Police say tranquilisers weren’t used because this “was not a safe or practical option”.
A spokesperson said: “Sedatives can take several minutes or longer to take effect in a full grown bull. In that time a stressed animal can still run unpredictably, endangering people and trains.”
