North Melbourne Station: Year seven boy trapped under train for an hour, suffering serious leg injuries
A paramedic described the experience as ‘potentially one of the most traumatic days’ of first responders’ lives.
A high school student is in a serious but stable condition after being trapped underneath a train for almost an hour.
Emergency services were contacted about 3.50pm on Monday by several witnesses after a year seven student fell onto the tracks and was hit by a train.
When they arrived at North Melbourne station, the boy was suffering serious injuries to his leg.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.He was trapped under the train for nearly an hour, while crews worked to extract the child.
Ambulance Victoria paramedic Alex Hemsley described the scene as “traumatic” to The Age.
“The extrication was lengthy, lasting between 45 minutes to an hour. However, we were safely able to get the young person to the Royal Children’s Hospital,” he said.
“Although we are all trained to do this job, (it was a) very traumatic scene for all involved.
“(First responders) did a fantastic job … they provided the highest level of care to this young person on potentially one of the most traumatic days of their lives.”
The boy remains in hospital and is in a serious but stable condition on Tuesday morning.
The child’s school, St Aloysius College, shared an update with the school community on Monday afternoon before more details about the incident were available.
“Our immediate priority is providing support to the family and ensuring our community is kept informed as reliable information becomes available,” principal Mary Farah wrote in an email to parents.
“In times of such sudden and distressing news, the strength of our college family is more important than ever.
“I know that your thoughts and compassion will be with the student and their family as they face this incredibly difficult time.”
The school followed up with a second email on Monday night.
“Some students witnessed this incident, and college staff arrived shortly after to support students, and the family of the student involved, who is currently recovering in hospital,” the email said.
The incident caused delays to the train network in Melbourne and Geelong.
Investigations are underway to determine how the child ended up on the tracks.
