Southport, United Kingdom - January 24, 2025 Shocking footage has been released showing a near-fatal incident at Crescent Road level crossing in Birkdale, where a female pedestrian narrowly avoided being struck by an oncoming train on January 24, 2025. The incident occurred around 9:45 a.m. when the pedestrian ignored warning lights and audible signals, coming dangerously close to disaster as a train sped past at up to 60 mph on the Northern line between Birkdale and Hillside stations. “In my time as a level crossing manager, I haven’t seen a near miss this close to being a fatality,” said Simon Shipperd of Network Rail, noting the individual appeared distracted and unaware of her surroundings. Chief Inspector Jamie McGowan condemned the reckless behavior, emphasizing that ignoring safety procedures endangers not only the individual but also passengers and rail staff. “There is simply no excuse for misusing a level crossing,” he warned. Network Rail, which oversees nearly 6,000 level crossings across Britain, has invested over £200 million since 2009 to improve safety through infrastructure upgrades and public education. Authorities urge pedestrians to remain vigilant and report unsafe behavior by texting 61016 or dialing 999 in emergencies.