Investigators are continuing to examine the scene of Friday’s fatal train collision near Bedford, with several crucial questions still unanswered more than 17 hours after the crash.
The collision involved two East Midlands Railway passenger services and has left one train driver dead and dozens of passengers injured.
Here is what is currently known and what investigators are still trying to establish.
What We Know
A Train Driver Has Died
British Transport Police confirmed on Friday night that one person died as a result of the collision.
On Saturday morning, the train drivers’ union Aslef confirmed the victim was the driver of the 4.40pm East Midlands Railway service from Corby to London St Pancras.
Two East Midlands Railway Services Were Involved
East Midlands Railway has confirmed the trains involved were:
- The 3.50pm service from Nottingham to London St Pancras.
- The 4.40pm service from Corby to London St Pancras.
The collision was reported at approximately 5.15pm on Friday.
At Least 89 People Were Injured
The East of England Ambulance Service said 89 people were hurt in the crash.
Officials stated that:
- 11 people suffered very serious injuries.
- 22 people suffered serious injuries.
- 56 people sustained minor injuries.
Emergency services declared a major incident as ambulances, air ambulances, police and fire crews responded to the scene.
Rail Services Were Severely Disrupted
All railway lines between Bedford and Luton were closed following the collision.
Major disruption has continued across the Midland Main Line as investigators examine the wreckage and damaged track.
What We Don’t Know
Which Train Collided With The Other
Authorities have not officially confirmed which train struck the other.
Photographs from the scene, witness accounts and train movement data have led to widespread speculation that the Corby service collided with the rear of the Nottingham train.
However, investigators have not formally confirmed this and it remains part of the ongoing inquiry.
What Caused The Collision
The most important unanswered question remains the cause of the crash.
Rail accident investigators and specialist forensic teams are examining evidence from the trains, signalling systems and track infrastructure.
At this stage, no official explanation has been provided.
The Condition Of Many Of Those Injured
Although authorities have released injury numbers, there has been no detailed update on the condition of those who suffered very serious and serious injuries.
Families continue to await further information from hospitals and emergency services.
The Condition Of The Other Driver
While the driver who died has been identified as operating the Corby service, officials have not yet released details regarding the condition of the driver of the Nottingham train.
Timeline Of Events
3.50pm
The Nottingham to London St Pancras service departs.
4.40pm
The Corby to London St Pancras service departs.
Around 5.15pm
The collision is reported near Bedford.
5.36pm
Rail operators announce all lines between Bedford and Luton are blocked.
Around 7.40pm
Rail unions report serious injuries among passengers and railway staff.
8.57pm
British Transport Police declare a major incident and confirm one fatality.
Around 10pm
The East of England Ambulance Service reports 89 casualties.
Saturday Morning
Aslef confirms the deceased was the driver of the Corby service.
Investigators remain at the scene and are expected to continue gathering evidence throughout the weekend as efforts continue to determine exactly how the collision occurred.