The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) is continuing its investigation into a fatal train crash near Bedford that killed a train driver and left nine people in critical condition. The collision, which occurred shortly after 5pm on Friday, involved two East Midlands Railway (EMR) trains, with one smashing into the back of the other on the same line. More than 80 people were treated in hospital on Friday night, with 28 still hospitalized as of Saturday morning, according to British Transport Police.
Injuries and Response
The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAS) reported that of the 100 victims, 11 people were very seriously injured, 32 were seriously hurt, and 57 suffered minor injuries. British Transport Police Chief Constable Lucy D'Orsi confirmed that nine patients remained in a critical condition on Saturday morning. The RAIB stated on Saturday that its inspectors were gathering evidence at the scene and would conduct a full, independent safety investigation. "We will provide a further update in the coming days once we know more," the agency said in a post on X.
Details of the Collision
The front of the 4.40pm departure from Corby to London St Pancras was crushed when it hit the rear of the 3.50pm departure from Nottingham, which was headed to the same destination. The Corby train also sustained damage to the rear of its carriages after being shunted into the ones in front. Chief Constable D'Orsi urged the public to refrain from speculation, stating that specialist investigators from British Transport Police and the RAIB are working to determine the cause.
Passenger Accounts
Passenger Pete Knapp, a doctor, described the scene as chaotic, with people "crying, screaming" and suffering from major injuries. "There was a moment of being flung into the chair in front, and then I saw smoke. People were crying, screaming, people were so scared and confused," he said. Another passenger, Brett Byatt, a teacher from Bedford, expressed anger over the incident, questioning why the train was not signaled and why the driver lost his life. He noted that many passengers in his carriage had serious wounds or could not move.
Official Reactions
Buckingham Palace said King Charles III was "greatly saddened" by the crash, with his thoughts and sympathies extended to the family of the deceased and all those injured. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed gratitude to air ambulance crews, emergency services, and NHS staff who responded. Ampthill Road remained closed between the Interchange Retail Park roundabout and Manor Road in Kempston Hardwick throughout Saturday, and the railway line's reopening date is not yet known. Network Rail confirmed that part of the East Midlands route remained closed as teams assessed damage to trains and infrastructure, advising passengers to check with their train operator for updates.
