Two Trains Collide at Salisbury Tunnel Junction
Chaos hit Salisbury last night when two trains smashed into each other at Tunnel Junction near Fisherton Tunnel.
A Greater Western Railway (GWR) service from Southampton to Cardiff crashed into a South Western Railway (SWR) train running from London Waterloo to Honiton at around 6:45 pm. Both were travelling in the same direction when one train sideswiped the other, causing a derailment.
30 Hurt, Driver Seriously Injured
Out of 92 passengers onboard, 30 sought treatment at a nearby casualty centre set up in a church. Most were treated for minor injuries on the spot, but 13 were rushed to hospital by ambulance. The front carriages stayed upright, while the rear ones tipped over.
Tragically, the train driver suffered more serious, life-changing injuries but is in stable condition. His family has been informed.
British Transport Police Launch Probe
The British Transport Police (BTP) are investigating the cause, with a senior detective leading the inquiry. So far, there’s no sign the trains hit an object or that there was any delay between the collision and derailment.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Langley said: “This will no doubt have been an incredibly frightening experience for all those involved and our thoughts are with them and their families today.
“Specialist officers remain on scene. We are working closely with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch and Office of Rail and Road to establish exactly how this happened.
“At this early stage, there’s nothing to suggest an object was struck or a delay between collision and derailment.
“I want to thank emergency services and local community members who helped safely evacuate passengers.”
Rescue Phase Ends, Full Investigation Underway
The rescue operation has now ended. Trains remain in place as investigators dig deeper into what caused the crash. The BTP urges any witnesses or passengers with information to come forward.
