Six firefighters were taken to hospital after two fire engines collided in central London on Saturday night. The crash occurred at the junction of Farringdon Road and Clerkenwell Road shortly after 10pm while both appliances were responding to an incident in Islington.
Images from the scene show significant damage to one of the engines, including a smashed windscreen and collapsed roof. A turntable ladder from one vehicle struck the other, damaging traffic lights and street furniture. The surrounding roads were closed while emergency services attended.
The firefighters suffered fractured bones as well as chest and head injuries. London Ambulance Service sent multiple crews, advanced paramedics and a hazardous area response team to the scene. Five of the six have since been discharged from hospital, with one remaining under care.
London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne confirmed that no other vehicles were involved. He said: “When the collision occurred, both appliances were responding to an incident in Islington, which was safely resolved by other attending crews.” He added that all staff involved continue to receive welfare support.
The Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade have launched an investigation into the collision, which occurred on 3 January 2026. The site was cleared by 3.45am on Sunday.
