A former running champion was killed when he was struck by a freight train in Wolverhampton just hours after enjoying a night out.
Mystery surrounds the death of Lee Merrick, pictured, who died instantly when he was hit on the railway track at Fowlers Crossing in Park Lane, Low Hill.
Police are not treating the incident as suspicious but the 19-year-old’s devastated family said there was no indication Lee wanted to take his own life.
Today his parents opened their hearts to pay tribute to the popular teenager.
Lu and Dave Merrick, of Aldersley Road, Aldersley, said they felt “empty” without their son and the one thing they did not know was where he was heading.
Mrs Merrick said: “I am absolutely devastated. I still keep thinking he is going to walk in through the door.
“All we know is he had been out drinking with friends and they were going to get a taxi but they ran out of money and walked their separate ways.”
Lee, of Austin Road, Dunstall Hill, was found dead at 3.15am on Saturday.
A talented athlete, he was the record holder for 100m, 200m and long jump at Smestow School, Castlecroft. He also ran for Wolverhampton and Bilston AC.
One of six children, he had been working as a labourer at James Wilkes builders, in Whitmore Reans.
Graham Lowe, head of sixth form at Smestow, said: “It was great shock to us all and a tragic loss of life.”
Transport police are investigating the incident.
By Andy Rea
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