Devastating Bedford Train Crash: One Dead, Many Injured in 'Bomb-like' Collision
Devastating Bedford Train Crash: One Dead, Many Injured in 'Bomb-like' Collision
A tragic train collision near Bedford has left one driver dead and 89 injured, with 11 seriously hurt. Passengers describe the scene as a 'bomb explosion'. Get the latest updates here.
A horrific collision involving two East Midlands Railway (EMR) passenger trains in the Bedford area on Friday has resulted in one fatality and dozens of injuries. The British Transport Police (BTP) confirmed the death of one driver shortly before 21:00 BST, declaring the incident a major emergency.
The crash, which occurred just after 17:00 BST, saw emergency services rush to the scene. The East of England Ambulance Service reported that 89 people sustained injuries of varying degrees, with 11 individuals suffering "very serious injuries." Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his deep concern, extending his thoughts to the family of the deceased and those injured.
The incident happened just south of the Elstow interchange, situated between the A421 and the A6. Rail services between Luton and Bedford were immediately blocked. Passengers on board described a terrifying experience. Dr Peter Knapp likened the impact to a "bomb explosion," recalling "bloodied faces," suspected broken legs, and "smoke everywhere." Another passenger, Shola Mene, described people being thrown from their seats, leading to numerous facial injuries and "a lot of blood" at the scene.
Investigations into the cause of the collision are expected to be launched, with initial reports from passengers suggesting one train was stationary when the second struck it. Emergency crews continue their work at the site, providing aid and assessing the full extent of the damage and injuries.
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