Schoolboy hit by train after backpack 'caught between carriages' in freak incident

A boy is fighting for his life after being dragged several metres by a train in a freak incident. The Year 7 student was standing on a platform at a railway station in North Melbourne, Australia on Monday, May 11 at around 4pm when his backpack became tangled between carriages . Australian news broadcaster Seven News reported that the boy was trying to retrieve his phone. It is understood the boy was hit by the train, dragged several metres and then trapped underneath it in front of a crowd of horrified commuters , including students from the boy's school. Fire and Rescue Victoria used a hydraulic jack to lift the train and free the trapped boy, who reportedly sustained serious lower body injuries. It has been reported that the extrication took between 45 minutes and an hour. He was treated by eight paramedics before being rushed to Royal Children's Hospital in a critical condition under "lights and sirens" - the most urgent response for emergency services. The boy will receive treatment for the severe injuries to his lower legs. Ambulance Victoria described as an incredibly traumatic scene. Paramedic Alex Hemsley said: "Very traumatic scene for all involved." "They did a fantastic job. They did everything as quickly as they could have done, provided the highest-level care to this young person in potentially one of the most traumatic days of their lives," she said. First responders are being supported by counselling services. The principal of the boy's school, St Aloysius College, sent an email to students and parents in the after the incident to offer support. "At approximately 4pm today, we received reports that one of our Year 7 students was involved in an accident at North Melbourne Train Station," the principal wrote. "At this stage, we have very few specific details regarding the circumstances or the student's current condition." "Events like this can be deeply unsettling for our young people. Please be mindful of your child's wellbeing this evening." Paramedics are hopeful of a full recovery, Seven News reported.