The family of a university student who died crossing the railway line at Falmer yesterday (Wednesday 25 May) have paid tribute to a “fantastic” son and brother.
The family of Nicholas Howells, 20, said: “Nicholas was a fantastic son, brother and friend to many.
“He was deeply loved by those that knew him.
“He was an avid rugby player and was enjoying his time studying international business studies at Sussex University.”
Michael Farthing, the university’s vice-chancellor, is writing to send his condolences to the family of the first year student, who came from Reading.
Professor Farthing said: “Everybody here was deeply saddened to hear of Nicholas’s death.
“Our thoughts are with his family and his friends.”
British Transport Police (BTP) is investigating the death, which is being treated as non-suspicious, and the university said that it would give whatever support it could.
Inspector Gary Ancell, based at the British Transport Police office at Brighton Station, said: “At this stage this appears to have been a tragic accident which has seen a young man lose his life after coming into contact with the live rail.
“This is a sad reminder of the need to take care when near railway lines.
“The live third rail, which powers trains across the south, carries 750 volts of electricity and remains switched on 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
A really sad story. Hope the family can find peace and give it a place in their lives..