Man and teen killed in Horsham level crossing crash

A 72-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy from the same family have died after a train struck their car at a level crossing in Horsham, West Sussex.

British Transport Police said officers were called to the scene near Barns Green village at 8.47am on Saturday, and the victims' relatives are being supported by family liaison officers.

Detective Inspector Brett Walker 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."

National Rail said in a post on Twitter: "Due to a serious car collision with a level crossing requiring emergency service attendance, all lines in the Christ's Hospital area are blocked and trains are currently unable to run between Horsham and Barnham.

"This will most likely be in place for most of the day."