Elizabeth line worker dies after assault at east London station

A 61-year-old Elizabeth line worker has died after an assault at a railway station in east London.

Officers from the British Transport Police (BTP) were called to Ilford station just before 8.50pm on Wednesday after reports of a serious assault. The man was taken to hospital with head injuries but later died.

The RMT union said the victim was one of its members and worked as a customer experience assistant for MTREL, which runs the Elizabeth line.

The RMT general secretary, Mick Lynch, said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our member, who died following an attack while at work.

“The whole union sends its condolences to their family, friends and colleagues at this awful time and everyone’s thoughts at RMT are with them.”

Mike Bagshaw, the managing director of the transport operator, said: “This is an unimaginable loss, and my heart goes out to his family, friends and colleagues during this profoundly difficult time.

“He was a valued member of our team, serving the railway community with dedication and kindness for more than two decades.”

DCI Paul Attwell, the senior investigating officer, said: “We have specialist family liaison officers supporting the victim’s family and our thoughts remain with them at this incredibly difficult time.

“I would like to reassure the public that this is an isolated incident and a 28-year-old man has now been charged and remanded in connection. We are not seeking anyone else.”

Ayodele Jamgbadi, of Ilford, appeared at Highbury Corner magistrates court on Friday charged with grievous bodily harm, affray and possession of a prohibited offensive weapon in a private place. He was remanded to appear at Inner London crown court on 7 January.

BTP said detectives would apply to amend the indictment to reflect the death of the victim.

Anyone with information is asked to contact BTP on 0800 405040 or text 61016 quoting incident 699 of 4 December.