Specialist officers ‘humanely dispatched the animal to prevent any wider risk to the public’
A general view of Selby railway station(Image: )
A bull that strayed onto the railway near Selby this morning has been killed as a “last resort” to protect the public, police said today. The animal was shot by firearms officers because it “could not be safely contained or directed away from the live railway”.
In a statement, North Yorkshire Police said: “Police officers, working with British Transport Police and Network Rail, have been forced to dispatch a bull that had escaped onto the railway near Selby this morning.
“The decision was taken as a last resort to remove an immediate risk to the public and the rail network after all safe options to contain and move the animal were unsuccessful.
“We were first alerted at around 09.13 this morning (Wednesday 14 January 2025) to reports of a bull on the tracks between Brayton level crossing and Selby station. Train movements were initially cautioned and as the situation developed, sections of the line were closed by Network Rail to protect passengers, rail staff and members of the public.
“Specialist police officers attended alongside livestock handlers. A drone was deployed to assist with locating and monitoring the animal. Despite sustained efforts, the bull could not be safely contained or directed away from the live railway.
“Given the continuing danger posed by the animal’s proximity to moving trains and critical rail infrastructure, firearms officers humanely dispatched the bull a short time ago.
“There are no reports of injuries to members of the public or officers. Some rail services were disrupted while the incident was managed and the scene made safe.”
Inspector Rob Campbell, Neighbourhood Policing, Selby, said: “This was an exceptionally complex situation and we understand the concern it may cause.
“Our duty is to protect life and keep people safe. Together with BTP, Network Rail and livestock handlers, we tried to contain and move the animal away from danger. Unfortunately, the bull continued to pose a serious and immediate risk on the railway.
“As a last resort, and with the appropriate legal authority in place, specialist officers humanely dispatched the animal to prevent any wider risk to the public.
“We’re grateful to passengers and local residents for their patience during the disruption.”