A GIFTED footballer died while trying to cross train tracks to the opposite platform after he missed his stop, an inquest has heard.
Olaoluwa Daranijo, 26, was heading home following a night out in London when he was electrocuted at Stone Crossing Station in Greenhithe.
The Crayford local, better known as Laolu, sent a heartbreaking final message to his girlfriend just before midnight on April 5.
Just minutes before his death, he told her he was on his way home, an inquest at Oakwood Park in Maidstone heard on Monday.
The hearing heard how CCTV from the train only showed Laolu’s feet as he sat close to a toilet on the carriage.
But it was revealed he had missed his stop for Crayford and ended up at Stone Crossing, where he got off, British Transport Police (BTP) constable Claire Duggan said.
Duggan told how tragic Laolu’s body was found in the middle of the tracks between two platforms at 12.13am on April 6.
The officer said she believed the player, who also worked as an accountant, had been trying to cross to the other platform.
He tried to reach the London-bound side in order to get back home, Duggan suggested.
Laolu had alcohol and cocaine in his system at the time of his death, reports showed.
But authorities said this fact did not contribute to his tragic passing.
His cause of death was described as electrocution.
Heartbreaking tributes poured in for the late star, with dozens writing tributes online.
One devastated loved one said: “Laolu Daranijo was a quiet light in all our lives – reserved, yet deeply loved and effortlessly admired.
“Though he never sought attention, Laolu’s presence was always felt.
“His calm strength, kindness, and sincerity left a mark on everyone he met. His memory will remain with us; not just in words, but in the quiet, powerful way he lived and loved.”
Another said: “Laolu was the epitome of the phrase ‘calm, VERY cool, and collected human.’
“I can never get over this loss, but I’ll take solace in the memories we have.”
Laolu played football for Drexel University School of Education in Philadelphia in 2020.
Prior to that, he had spent three years at Peddie School in New Jersey where he helped the team to a state title in 2016.
He was from Nigeria but most recently lived in Crayford.
Laolu was playing for Cobham FC in Surrey at the time of his death.
The club dubbed him “an outstanding player, a humble teammate, and a cherished member of the club family”.
Cobham said: ”His ability was exceptional. Laolu possessed vision, pace, and a calmness in front of goal that made him a constant threat.
“Always respectful and grounded, Laolu never called any of the managers/coaches by name – only ever ‘Coach’.
“That small gesture said everything about his character: humble, focused, and team-first.
“He was a standout player, but more than that, he was a joy to be around on and off the pitch.”
