Bull shot after escaping onto railway tracks near Selby
Officers say they were unable to safely contain the animal
Last updated 14th Jan 2026
A bull has been humanely shot after it escaped onto railway lines near Selby, North Yorkshire Police say.
Officers were called at around 9.13am this morning (14th January) to reports of a bull on the tracks between Brayton level crossing and Selby station.
Specialist police officers and livestock handlers attempted to contain the bull and move it away from the tracks.
These attempts were not successful however and firearms officers dispatched the bull.
Police say the decision was a last resort to remove an immediate risk after all options to safely remove it had been unsuccessful.
Some train lines were closed during this time but have since reopened.
There are no reported injuries to members of the public or officers.
"...continued to pose a serious and immediate risk..."
Inspector Rob Campbell, Neighbourhood Policing, Selby, said: “This was an exceptionally complex situation and we understand the concern it may cause.
“Our duty is to protect life and keep people safe. Together with BTP, Network Rail and livestock handlers, we tried to contain and move the animal away from danger.
“Unfortunately, the bull continued to pose a serious and immediate risk on the railway.
“As a last resort, and with the appropriate legal authority in place, specialist officers humanely dispatched the animal to prevent any wider risk to the public. We’re grateful to passengers and local residents for their patience during the disruption.”