A 14-year-old boy from Nottinghamshire, England, has tragically died after being struck by a train, leaving family, friends, and his local community in shock.
Joshua Travis, described by his family as having “so much love to give,” was hit by a train just after 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 26. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after a report of a “casualty on the tracks,” but Joshua was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the British Transport Authority. Authorities say the incident is not being treated as suspicious.
In a heartfelt statement, Joshua’s family said, “Josh was a lad with an incredible energy for life, an infectious and mischievous smile, kind sparkling eyes, and so much love to give. He leaves a gap in our lives that is and will always be impossible to fill, and we will miss him forever.”
Joshua had been a promising athlete, having played as a goalkeeper for the Nottingham Forest Academy. The team shared their grief in a Facebook post, writing, “Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of our former academy goalkeeper Josh Travis. Our thoughts are with Josh’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”
His former local football club, Burton Joyce FC, also honored Joshua, saying they were “absolutely devastated” by the teen’s death. The club announced plans to hold a moment of silence at all weekend games to pay tribute to the young player, adding, “Rest peacefully, Josh — you’ll always be part of our BJFC family.”
Friends and peers gathered at the site of the incident on Friday, Nov. 28, leaving flowers and paying their respects to the boy taken far too soon. Network Rail, which manages much of Britain’s railway infrastructure, temporarily closed the crossing where the tragedy occurred, while the Rail Accident Investigation Branch reviews evidence to determine the next steps.