The search for missing Ben Whiteman ended tragically when he was identified as the victim of a train accident in Chester-le-Street, County Durham. On Monday night, around 10:45 p.m., police and paramedics were called to the station following reports of a “casualty on the tracks.” The incident led to significant disruptions, with trains between Newcastle and Darlington being halted for several hours, causing delays and cancellations across multiple routes.
What Happened To Ben Whiteman?
The British Transport Police have confirmed that Whiteman was pronounced dead at the scene. The circumstances surrounding his death are not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the coroner.
Whiteman, a resident of Durham, had been missing since June 3rd. Concern arose when it was discovered that his phone had been switched off for an unusually long period. His mother, Liz Hyre Harrison, took to Facebook to raise the alarm about her son’s disappearance. In a heartfelt plea, she described her distress and urged anyone with information to come forward. Her post read:
“Has anyone heard or seen my son Ben Whiteman? It is not like him to turn his phone off and not come home, not message, & not go to work today. Very out of character. He was last active at 10 p.m. on Monday, June 3. He hasn’t been to work, and he hasn’t come home. No family members or close friends have heard from him.”
The news of Whiteman’s death has shocked the local community, who had hoped for a positive outcome to the search. Friends and family are mourning the loss of a vibrant young man whose life was cut short in such tragic circumstances.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the authorities. The community remains in mourning as they come to terms with this devastating loss.