The investigation into Friday's devastating train crash near Bedford continues, with British Transport Police naming driver Shaun Burton, 60, who tragically lost his life in the disaster. Mr Burton's family has spoken out about their profound sorrow, extending condolences to all affected by the incident.
The collision between two East Midlands Railway services occurred at approximately 17:15 BST just south of Elstow, near the A421 and A6 road interchange. Emergency services responded quickly, with a major incident declared. The East of England Ambulance Service reported that 100 people were injured, with eleven sustaining very serious injuries, 32 injured, and 57 suffering minor injuries. As of the latest update, 28 remain hospitalised, nine in critical condition.
The two trains involved were the 16:40 service from Corby, Northamptonshire, and the 15:50 service from Nottingham, both headed to London St Pancras. British Transport Police and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch are working together to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crash, with an update expected soon.
Rail services have been severely disrupted. Network Rail estimates that repairs will not be complete until June 28th, keeping the line between Bedford and Luton closed. Thameslink advises passengers only travel if necessary, highlighting ongoing disruptions for commuters and travellers in the region.
Passengers on board the affected trains described hearing a loud "boom" followed by cries of pain as they were thrown against each other during the collision. These harrowing accounts underscore the severity of the incident and the distress experienced by those involved.