UK train horror: Driver killed, dozens injured after passenger trains crash near Bedford

According to the British Transport Police (BTP), officers were called to the scene of a collision involving two East Midlands Railway trains on the railway line at Elstow at around 5:15 pm on June 19.

The person who died was identified as the driver of one of the trains.

Providing an update on the incident, BTP said that 33 people were taken to hospital, including 11 with serious injuries, while another 56 people were treated for less severe injuries.

In a post on X, the East of England Ambulance Service said: "Sadly, one person died at the scene. A further 11 people suffered very serious injuries, 22 were seriously injured, and a further 56 people had minor injuries. Those with minor injuries were treated at the scene or taken to hospital where needed."

The cause of the collision remains under investigation.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) said on X that a team of inspectors had been deployed to the site to begin gathering evidence. "A team of RAIB inspectors is on site at the scene of a collision between two trains near Elstow, to start gathering evidence," the agency said.

Bedford Hospital said it was working closely with emergency services to support those injured in the incident.

"We ask the public to avoid attending our Emergency Departments unless they have a genuine medical emergency. Please use NHS services appropriately," the hospital said in a post on X.

Reacting to the tragedy, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was receiving updates on the situation.

"Hugely concerning reports of a collision involving two passenger trains near Bedford," Starmer wrote on X.

"First and foremost, my thoughts are with the family of the person who has sadly lost their life, and with those who have been seriously injured," he added.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander also expressed her condolences, saying she was deeply saddened by the death and injuries caused by the train collision near Bedford.