This is the shocking moment a speeding train missed a man by inches after he forced his way through barriers at a level crossing in north London.
CCTV footage released by British Transport Police shows the pedestrian ignoring signs to wait and illegally crossing the live track on May 5 at Brimsdown junction in the borough of Enfield.
The force said officers have been forced to investigate the incident when they should be supporting Covid-19 measures.
The man risked lethal or live-changing injuries just to save a few seconds, it added.
The footage opens with the man straining to lift the barrier.
After a concerted effort, he raises the divide and squeezes through.
With an almost casual demeanour, he looks both ways before striding across the track.
But, as he reaches the edge, he notices a fast-approaching train heading in his direction and speeds up.
The train narrowly misses him before zooming on to its destination.
Inspector Stephen Webster said: “This was a completely needless incident and one that requires our attention and an investigation at a time when officers could be supporting the latest guidance around Covid-19, and helping to keep the travelling public safe.
“The warning signs, barriers and flashing lights are all there for a reason. Some trains travel at high speed, and one that you think is in the distance could be bearing down on you in seconds.
“This incident could have very easily gone the other way, as it has in the past, and this man may not have returned home to his loved ones. Don’t ignore the small wait it takes for a train to pass, don’t risk your life.”
Rebecca Crocker, Network Rail's community safety manager for Anglia, added: "This was reckless behaviour in which this person could easily have lost their life. Just a trip or fall and this could have ended very differently."
“It really isn't worth taking a risk like this in order to save a few minutes."
