Two passengers seriously injured when a Southern Rail train derailed in East Sussex are not deemed to be in a life-threatening condition, police have said.
A major incident was declared by British Transport Police (BTP) after three carriages derailed on their side, trapping passengers on board the Southern train near Lewes on Thursday afternoon.
Around 150 people had been on board the service from London Victoria to Eastbourne, which was evacuated. Two people were taken to major trauma centres with “severe” injuries following the incident.
Police Update on Injuries
BTP said on Friday the injuries are not deemed to be life-threatening. A statement said: “They both remain in hospital and the 18 people who were also treated at hospital for less serious injuries have been discharged.”
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Drummond-Smith added: “Our thoughts remain firmly with those who were injured and their loved ones. On behalf of BTP, I wish them a full and speedy recovery.”
Appeal for Witnesses
The force is appealing for anyone on board the derailed train who have not already spoken to police to come forward. Officers said many passengers left the area and took alternative routes home after they were evacuated.
Pictures show rail staff, police and members of the Rail Accident Investigations Bureau (RAIB) beside the tracks on Friday. Mr Drummond-Smith said the public can expect to see a “continued police presence” at the scene in the coming days as the RAIB’s investigation into the cause continues.
Community Response and Safety Assurance
The senior officer also paid tribute to communities and emergency services who responded to the derailment. “Local Lewes residents and business owners came out in their droves to support affected passengers, providing water and refreshments in extremely hot conditions,” he said.
“My thanks and appreciation go to them, as well as our officers and emergency service colleagues whose professionalism ensured those on board were brought to safety in incredibly challenging circumstances.”
John Whitehurst, chief executive of Greater Thameslink Railway, said on Friday derailments are “incredibly rare”, adding that what happened near Lewes “was a very serious incident and I’m deeply saddened by it”. Asked on the BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme if the railway was safe in hot weather, Mr Whitehurst said: “The railway is safe. These types of incidents are incredibly rare. We have control processes in place that involve inspection, temporary speed restrictions or even suspending services if that’s required.”
