Two trains collided near Kempston, between Luton and Bedford, approximately 60 miles north of London, on Friday evening. The incident involved an East Midlands Railway service from Nottingham to St Pancras International and another from Corby to St Pancras. Multiple injuries were reported, with passengers describing bloodied faces and broken legs. One passenger stated there was no warning before the collision, which occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time.
Emergency services responded to the scene, including British Transport Police, East of England Ambulance Service, and Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue. An air ambulance and hazardous area response team were deployed. Transport Minister Heidi Alexander expressed concern over the reports.
Rail services were severely disrupted, with East Midlands Railway halting operations in and out of London for the rest of the day. Thameslink reported all lines blocked between Luton and Bedford, advising passengers to seek alternative routes. Replacement buses were requested.
Witness accounts described the front of one train entangled with the back of another, with both remaining upright on the tracks. One passenger noted the third carriage was 'off the rails.' Smoke was reported inside the carriages, and the impact was likened to a 'bomb explosion' by one survivor.
Investigations are ongoing, with authorities urging the public to avoid the area.