A serious three-vehicle collision on the A1 Upper Street outside a busy café has brought traffic to a standstill in both directions between Canonbury Lane and Barnsbury Street, near Islington Town Hall.
The incident occurred at around 7:45am on Friday, 11 April 2025, and has caused major disruption during the morning rush hour. Emergency services rushed to the scene after one of the vehicles ploughed into tables outside a café, where customers were seated.
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Emergency Response and Diversions
Police, ambulance crews, and firefighters responded rapidly. It is currently unknown how many people have been injured, but eyewitnesses reported seeing paramedics treating multiple individuals at the scene.
The road has been completely blocked between Highbury Corner and Islington Green, and traffic is heavily congested in the surrounding areas. A diversion is in place affecting bus routes 4, 19, 30, and 43, which are being rerouted while emergency teams work at the scene.
A source for the Metropolitan Police said:
“We are currently dealing with a three-vehicle road traffic collision on Upper Street in Islington. One vehicle collided with outdoor seating at a nearby café. Officers remain at the scene and are working to assess the circumstances.”
Eyewitness Accounts
Several passersby shared dramatic images and video clips on social media, showing a damaged vehicle against the café’s outdoor area, with broken chairs and tables scattered along the pavement.
One witness wrote on X:
“Shocking crash on Upper Street – a car mounted the pavement and hit a café. Hope everyone’s okay.”
Another said:
“Emergency services everywhere – avoid the area if you can.”
Investigation and Travel Advice
An accident investigation is now underway, and officers are working to clear the scene and assess the structural safety of the café frontage.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes. Public transport users should check for live updates before travelling.
Authorities are expected to release further information on injuries and the cause of the crash later today.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.
