Heroin addict fell in front of train, inquest hears

13:52 Heroin addict fell in front of train , inquest hears 0 Comments

A recovering heroin addict was killed after falling off a platform at Clapham Junction, an inquest heard. Jason Hicks, 36, who lived in supported housing in Vauxhall, was close to the edge of the platform and fell under a stopping train on August 4 last year. Thursday's inquest heard he was on release from prison and was receiving treatment for drug addiction. Witness David Elton said he saw Mr Hicks appear from behind a pillar whilst he was waiting for a train travelling in the other direction. He was advancing fast and walked past the yellow safety line. Mr Elton said: "He moved straight to the edge of the platform and must have been within millimetres of the passing train. "I thought 'what the hell are you doing?', and he was gone. I think he intended to jump." Train driver Daniel Eden said he saw Mr Hicks standing very close to the edge of the platform with a walking stick. The inquest heard Mr Hicks was responding well to rehabilitation, but during a session in January said "I don't feel ready to get any extra help." He had hepatitis B and C, and drank about 210 units of alcohol a week. Coroner Dr William Dolman recorded a verdict of death from multiple injuries as a result of an accident, despite Mr Elton's belief he intended to kill himself. He said: "He was undergoing treatment and prospects looked good for him. He was doing well with his progress during rehabilitation, there were no other problems."