An investigation is to take place into the handling of a call to police concerning the welfare of a woman who died after being hit by a train.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission has today announced it is looking into the case of Natalie Gray who died at Barming station in April.

An inquest into the 24-year-old's death heard she had discharged herself from Priority House, in Hermitage Lane, where she was receiving care from a mental health team saying she wanted to kill herself.

Staff at the psychiatric unit, where Miss Gray was a voluntary patient, called police following her departure at 4.30pm — at 6.12pm she reportedly jumped off a platform at the station.

She died at the scene after sustaining multiple injuries.

The IPCC confirmed it is investigating Kent Police’s handling of the initial call and their response.

Ian Pointon, chairman of Kent Police Federation, said: "This loss of life is tragic and my heart goes out to Natalie Gray's family, friends and loved ones.

"Any investigation should not focus solely on Kent Police but also the actions of other agencies charged with the care of Natalie Gray." — Ian Pointon

"Whilst it would be wrong to pre-empt or second guess this investigation, there is some comment I can make.

"For the sake of all involved, this investigation should be conducted in a timely manner. Too many IPCC investigations drag on for far too long.

"Secondly, any investigation should not focus solely on Kent Police but also the actions of other agencies charged with the care of Natalie Gray."

An inquest is due to resume into the death of Miss Gray, from Bournemouth Road, Folkestone, on Tuesday, July 14.

The organisation also tweeted about the case urging people to respect the tragic nature of the circumstances.

A Kent Police Spokesman said: "The IPCC is carrying out an investigation following the death of 24-year-old Natalie Gray in Maidstone on Tuesday, April 21, 2015, and Kent Police is co-operating fully with its inquiries.

"As this is an active investigation it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time."

If you would like confidential support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 at any time.

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