Grandfather and grandson killed in Horsham level crossing crash

A grandfather and his grandson have died after their car was hit by a train at a level crossing in Horsham, West Sussex.

A 72-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy died in the collision which took place at around 8.45am on Saturday.

The victims’ relatives are being supported by police family liaison officers.

The exact details of the crash have not been revealed but images of the wreckage show the car in several pieces.

British Transport Police (BTP) officers responded to the incident with colleagues from Sussex Police and paramedics.

Detective Inspector Brett Walker from BTP said: "This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.

"Our officers have been working at the scene, and will continue to do so for the rest of the day, to ensure we gain as much information about how the collision happened.

"People should expect some disruption to services in the area while we investigate. I would like to thank the community in Barns Green for their support and patience.

"Local people will see more of our officers in the area throughout the day and I would urge anyone who saw what happened, or feels they may have any information which would be relevant to our investigation, to contact us."

Many of the passengers on board the train were taken to the nearby Sumners Ponds campsite, where they were given hot drinks.

Authorities are examining the scene to establish the circumstances that led to the car being hit.

Anyone with info can call BTP on 0800 40 50 40 reference 146 of 17/02/18 or text on 61016.

Agencies contributed to this report