AN OXFORD University student who jumped in front of a train was suffering from anxiety over academic and sport commitments, an inquest was told today. 

On April 6, Rafael Baptista Ochoa stepped off the platform of Appleford Railway Station near Didcot, in front of the 11:09pm Oxford to London Paddington train. He died of severe head injuries.

The 23-year-old, who was originally from Spain, had been captain of the second University Golf Club team and was in the second year of a computer engineering PHD at Keble College.

No family were present at his inquest, held at Oxford County Hall, but six friends attended. 

Assistant coroner for Oxfordshire Nicholas Graham read evidence from Dr Helen Salisbury, who saw the student at Jericho Medical Centre one week before his death.

The doctor said Mr Ochoa described feeling ‘very anxious’ over ‘deadlines, academic work and sport events’.

She added: “He said he couldn’t sleep and was having suicidal thoughts but said he felt safe that he would not act on them.”

The student had a history of mental health problems, having previously suffered from anxiety in 2011.

In his evidence statement, train driver James Scholes described seeing Mr Ochoa as he approached the platform and sounding his horn when the young man continued towards the edge.

He said: “I slammed on my emergency breaks but there is no stopping a train when it is that close.”

Mr Graham said he was satisfied Mr Ochoa had intended to take his own life and concluded the cause of death was suicide.

A statement from Oxford University said: “Rafael Ochoa was widely liked and respected at Oxford, and his family and friends have the University’s deepest sympathy.

“Oxford has extensive support services available in colleges, academic departments and the central University for students who are going through difficulties.

"Students who are experiencing anxiety, for whatever cause, can always contact our services and be assured of confidential, professional and caring support.”      

Tribute was also paid from Sir Jonathan Phillips, warden of Keble College.

He said: "Rafael Ochoa came to Oxford University in 2015 to study towards a DPhil in computer science following a successful undergraduate career at Cambridge. He studied first at Somerville College, then moved to Keble College in 2016 after he won a scholarship here.

"His supervisors reported his research was going well and he also engaged in a wide range of activities outside academic work. The University, the Department of Computer Science and the Colleges to which Rafael belonged are all deeply saddened by the loss of a very talented and engaging student. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family."