Arabic version: تصادم قطار مميت في بيدفورد يترك العديد من المصابين ويعطل الخدمات

A tragic train collision in Bedford has resulted in the death of a driver and left dozens of passengers injured. The incident occurred shortly after 17:00 BST on Friday when two East Midlands Railway (EMR) services collided. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, where the British Transport Police (BTP) later confirmed the fatality around 21:00 BST, declaring a major incident.

According to BBC News, the East of England Ambulance Service reported that 89 individuals sustained injuries, with 11 classified as having very serious injuries. Passengers recounted the harrowing moments of the crash, with one describing it as feeling like a bomb explosion.

The crash occurred just south of the Elstow interchange, with reports indicating that one of the trains was stationary when it was struck by another. EMR has suspended services to and from London St Pancras over the weekend, advising travelers that they will need to find alternative routes. This disruption affects connections from various locations, including Sheffield and Lincoln, to St Pancras.

Emergency services, including the BTP and local police, are continuing to respond at the scene. Bedford Hospital has requested that individuals avoid their emergency department unless facing a genuine medical emergency, as they treat victims of the crash. The cause of the collision is currently under investigation by the BTP and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch, with officials stating it is too early to speculate on the circumstances surrounding the incident.