An investigation is underway into the derailment of a passenger train near Wickford station on August 14, 2026. The incident occurred at approximately 14:08, involving a Greater Anglia train travelling between Southend Victoria and London Liverpool Street.
The rearmost vehicle of the train, which was carrying an estimated 62 people, derailed around 2.1 miles south-east of Wickford station. There were no reported injuries, and the train remained upright throughout the incident.
Preliminary analysis of the on-train data recorder indicates the train was travelling at approximately 77 mph when it derailed. The driver reported seeing a kink in the track, and forward-facing CCTV recovered from the train shows a misalignment at the same location.
The investigation will examine the sequence of events, the actions of those involved, the status and maintenance of the track, the effectiveness of hot weather mitigation measures, and any underlying management factors. The findings, including safety recommendations, will be published upon conclusion of the investigation.