Train collision north of London kills driver, injures dozens

A severe train crash north of London has claimed the life of at least one train driver and left dozens injured, some critically. The collision happened near Bedford when two passenger trains operated by East Midlands Railway (EMR) collided on the same track. The incident caused a significant disruption to rail services, with delays and cancellations affecting routes between London St Pancras and Leicester.

British Transport Police are investigating the cause of the crash, which initial reports suggest may have been due to a technical issue. Emergency services, including police, firefighters, and paramedics, responded swiftly to the scene. An air ambulance was also dispatched.

Witnesses described a sudden impact and scenes of panic, with some passengers sharing images of injured individuals on social media. The crash has led to a partial shutdown of rail traffic on the affected line. Thameslink also suspended services between Luton and Bedford. Transport Minister Heidi Alexander expressed deep concern and thanked the emergency responders, assuring that efforts are underway to restore normalcy and support the investigation.