Tragedy on The Strand: A young woman in her 20s was killed when a van flew through the air and smashed into pedestrians outside King’s College London earlier today.
Van Goes Airborne Before Deadly Smash
Witnesses describe chilling scenes as a transit-style van tore through an iron gate on The Strand, clipped a planter, then launched into the air before crashing into a group of people. The victim was sitting on a bench with friends when she was struck.
“The iron gate collapsed as the van was coming out of the service yard. It was still going at speed and it ended up clipping a planter before going through the air. It hit the girl as she was sitting on the bench with one of her mates,” said eyewitness Josh, who works nearby.
He added: “You could hear screams and people rushed to help her. Another man was hurt by the falling gate.”
Emergency Services Rush to Scene
The crash sparked a huge emergency response. Multiple ambulances, police, and an air ambulance were dispatched. The London Fire Brigade sent two fire engines and 10 firefighters to assist.
A blue forensic tent was set up and officers cordoned off the area around King’s College London’s Strand campus and nearby Bush House North.
Investigation Underway, Driver Arrested
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Two others were rushed to hospital—one with potentially life-threatening injuries, another with minor wounds. A fourth person was treated and discharged.
A 26-year-old man, believed to be the driver, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and driving under the influence of drugs. He remains in police custody.
A Met Police spokesperson said:
“Police were called at 11:41am on Tuesday, 18 March, to a collision involving a van and pedestrians near The Strand, WC2. The victim was sadly pronounced dead at the scene. Enquiries are ongoing and the incident is not being treated as terrorism-related.”
Shock at King’s College and Community Tributes
King’s College was briefly locked down as emergency workers attended the scene. Students were left shaken.
“At first, I thought it was a protest because we get those outside campus. But then I saw stretchers and people being treated. Knowing someone has died is heartbreaking—we walk by that crossing every day,” said Ali, a 28-year-old PhD student.
Peter Babington, Priest-in-Charge at nearby St Mary’s le Strand, offered condolences:
“I would like to offer my thoughts and prayers to the victims and families involved in this terrible incident.”
Road Closures and Public Appeal
The Strand remains closed westbound between Surrey Street and Waterloo Bridge. Bus routes 9 and 23 are diverted.
Police urge any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact the Met Police on 101, quoting CAD 2771/18MARCH, or via social media @MetCC.
This is a developing story. More updates to follow.
