Inquest opened into Mark Peter Adkins death at Chadwell Heath station
The coroner’s court in Walthamstow will examine the 13 August 2026 train collision, with British Transport Police saying no suspicion surrounds the incident.
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Mark Peter Adkins, a 59‑year‑old retired resident of Epping, was pronounced dead on the tracks at Chadwell Heath railway station at about 8 pm on 13 August 2026. The incident was reported to British Transport Police, who attended the scene. A post‑mortem was carried out at Walthamstow Mortuary, but the precise medical cause of death has not yet been determined.
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Coroner’s court opens inquest
East London Coroner’s Court in Walthamstow opened an inquest on 2 September 2026, as confirmed by the court’s officer Jean Smyth. The inquest will establish the facts surrounding Mr Adkins’s death and determine whether any further action is required.
“I understand the circumstance to be that on Thursday, August 13, 2026, British Transport Police were called to Chadwell Heath railway station in Romford follow reports of a person being struck by a train,”
Jean Smyth, Coroner’s officer
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Jean Smyth also clarified that the incident is not being treated as suspicious. A British Transport Police spokesperson echoed this view, stating that a file will be prepared for the coroner and no criminal investigation is currently underway.
What happens next
The inquest will continue with a full hearing at a later date. Mr Adkins’s family have been granted interested‑person status, which allows them to view evidence ahead of the final hearing and to question any witnesses called. The coroner’s office will issue a final verdict after hearing all testimony and reviewing the post‑mortem findings.
Anyone affected by the incident can contact the Samaritans on 116 123 for confidential support, or email jo@samaritans.org. The coroner’s office has advised that further updates will be posted on its website as the inquest progresses.
Questions this report answers
+When did Mark Peter Adkins die?
Mark Peter Adkins died on 13 August 2026 at around 8 pm after being struck by a train at Chadwell Heath station. The time and location are recorded in the coroner’s report and form the basis of the inquest.
+Where is the inquest being held?
The inquest opened at East London Coroner’s Court in Walthamstow on 2 September 2026. The court will hear evidence, examine the post‑mortem report and decide on a final verdict regarding the death.
+Is the incident being treated as a crime?
Coroner’s officer Jean Smyth said the incident is not being treated as suspicious, and British Transport Police confirmed no criminal investigation is underway. The focus remains on establishing the facts through the inquest process.
+What can families do during the inquest?
Families have been given interested‑person status, which lets them view evidence before the final hearing and question witnesses. They may also seek support from services such as the Samaritans, whose contact details were provided in the coroner’s announcement.
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