POLICE are investigating allegations that a teenager who died after falling in front of a train was being bullied, an inquest hearing was told.

Adam Smith, aged 19, from Atherton, died on May 24 when he was struck by a train between Hag Fold and Daisy Hill stations at about 1.45pm.

Bolton Coroner’s Court heard that police are investigating whether Mr Smith was being bullied at the time of his death.

They are currently analysing 73 YouTube videos as part of their inquiries, a pre-inquest review was told.

Coroner Alan Walsh said: “I have received information that Adam Smith was on the railway line, standing behind a bridge support.

“He jumped into the path of an oncoming train.”

Paramedics from North West Ambulance Service attended but there was nothing they could do to save Mr Smith, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr Walsh said: “There was some information given that Adam Smith may have been the victim of bullying and there may well have been a great impact in relation to this in view of problems he may have had in life.”

Inspector Michelle Wedderburn, from British Transport Police, attended the hearing at Bolton Coroner’s Court on Friday.

When asked, she confirmed that police were investigating matters relating to Mr Smith’s death that could potentially result in charges being made.

She added that 73 videos are currently being studied but that they are owned by YouTube and that police would have to request them.

Mr Walsh adjourned the hearing until August 15 to allow time for further police investigations.