Police Officer Dies while Attempting to Save Man on Train Tracks
A police officer tragically lost his life while trying to rescue a distressed man on train tracks in Balderton, near Newark-on-Trent. Sergeant Graham Saville, a highly respected response officer based at Newark police station, suffered serious injuries during the incident on August 24. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he passed away in hospital on Tuesday.
The British Transport Police is leading the investigation into the incident. During the rescue attempt, the distressed man, believed to be 29 years old, also sustained injuries caused by electricity and was treated in the hospital. Details about the exact sequence of events or whether a call was made to Network Rail, responsible for ensuring track safety, have not been disclosed.
Sergeant Saville, 46, who was also the uncle of Joe Worrall, captain of Nottingham Forest football club, was taken to Queen’s Medical Centre where he succumbed to his injuries. The news of his untimely demise has sparked an outpouring of tributes and support. A JustGiving fundraiser has already surpassed £90,000 in donations, with the aim of reaching £100,000 to support Sergeant Saville’s family.
Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley commended Sergeant Saville’s bravery, acknowledging that he had started his policing career as a special constable in London before transitioning to the regular service. Nottinghamshire Police Chief Constable Kate Meynell described Sergeant Saville as a hugely respected and popular colleague and expressed her shock over his sudden passing. She emphasized that Sergeant Saville’s commitment to protecting others led him to make the ultimate sacrifice while attempting to save another person’s life. His service and sacrifice, she vowed, would always be remembered.
The death of Sergeant Saville serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers that police officers face daily in their efforts to keep communities safe. The Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, to express his condolences and highlight the courageous nature of Sergeant Saville’s final act. He stated that the tragedy underscores the vital work that the police undertake to safeguard the public.
The investigation into this heartbreaking incident continues, with the British Transport Police leading the efforts. The loss of a dedicated officer like Sergeant Graham Saville leaves a lasting impact on his colleagues and the wider community. As tributes flood in from senior officers and politicians alike, his loved ones are left to mourn the heroism and selflessness that defined his final moments.
