Train spotter died on tracks at Stratton

William Steven Chucas died on March 6 after sustaining multiple injuries at a railway crossing in Stratton, near Dorchester.

An inquest into the 28-year-old’s death, held at Bournemouth Town Hall by assistant coroner for Dorset Brendan Allen, concluded Mr Chucas took his own life.

The inquest heard that Mr Chucas, who had an autism spectrum disorder, had three jobs, and worked a combined 35 hours a week.

One of his jobs included working in the car park at Waitrose in Wimborne.

He also volunteered at the model town running the model railway.

The inquest heard Mr Chucas never complained, never seemed tired and never missed a day’s work.

Prior to his death, Mr Chucas, from Wimborne, was suspended from his job at Waitrose, the hearing was told.

He returned on March 2 and three days later spoke to his mum about the suspension.

Mr Chucas left a note of intention at his home, cycled to Poole station, purchased a one-way ticket to Dorchester and cycled to Stratton, where he made his way to the foot crossing.

He was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

Mr Allen said: “From the evidence I am satisfied on March 6, William travelled from his home address to Stratton.

“He deliberately placed himself in front of an oncoming train having accessed the tracks via a footpath.

“He had left a note at his home address and also a note on his bike.

“I am satisfied that beyond reasonable doubt he took his own life.

“William died of multiple injuries having deliberately placed himself in the path of an oncoming train.”

Reading a statement from William’s mum, Mr Allen said: “In his own words William described himself as a satisfied, well loved, good mannered hard worker.

“A railway enthusiast, he took in the essence of life. He had an autism spectrum disorder but was a remarkable young man.

“Everyone needs a William in their lives.”

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