Train Collision Occurs South of Bedford
A collision involving two passenger trains operated by East Midlands Railway (EMR) took place near Bedford, leading to multiple injuries among passengers and crew members. Emergency responders are actively managing the scene following the incident, which occurred at approximately 5:12 PM BST.
Details of the Incident
British Transport Police confirmed their response to reports of a train collision near Bedford shortly before 6:45 PM BST. The incident caused disruptions, with Thameslink reporting blocked lines between Luton and Bedford from around 5:30 PM BST. A passenger aboard one of the trains indicated the collision happened at 5:12 PM BST. The site of the crash is located just south of the Elstow interchange, where the A421 and A6 roads meet, and both trains remain on the tracks. Authorities have advised family and friends of those involved to avoid the scene.
Eyewitness Accounts and Injuries
Preliminary information suggests that one train may have struck another that was either stationary or moving slowly on the same line. A passenger, Peter Knapp, described the impact as feeling like a "bomb explosion" and reported seeing "bloodied faces," individuals with suspected broken legs, and "smoke everywhere." Another passenger, Shola Mene, recounted people being thrown from their seats, with many sustaining facial injuries and considerable bleeding. The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union has received reports of "serious injuries" among both passengers and onboard staff.
Official Response and Investigation
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has dispatched a team of inspectors to the scene near Elstow to gather evidence and determine the exact circumstances of the collision. EMR confirmed the involvement of two of its services: the 4:40 PM train from Corby to London St Pancras and the 3:50 PM Nottingham to London St Pancras service. The train company has suspended all services to and from London St Pancras for the remainder of the day.
Emergency Services and Political Reaction
British Transport Police urged the public not to travel to the scene and to await updates from emergency services. Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and the East of England Ambulance Service, including air ambulance and a Hazardous Area Response Team, are actively engaged in the response. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed deep concern over the reports, thanking emergency services and pledging support for passengers. Both Bedford and Kempston MP Mohammad Yasin and Health Secretary James Murray acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and the efforts of first responders.