There was a tragic railway accident in Mucking, where a 67-year-old gateman named William Chapman was struck and killed by a goods train from Thames Haven. Chapman, who lived at a cottage near the London, Tilbury, and Southend railway crossing, had opened the gates for the down train and was re-crossing the line when the accident occurred. His head was crushed, and he is believed to have died instantly. About 15 minutes later, a private of the Limerick Militia who was crossing the line discovered Chapman’s body. The news of his death was a terrible shock to his wife.
Chelmsford Chronicle – Friday 01 June 1900
