Derailment of Southern Rail train near Lewes injures 20 passengers
A Southern Rail service between London and Eastbourne derailed near Lewes, leaving two seriously injured and 18 with minor injuries, while emergency crews worked to evacuate all passengers.
A Southern Rail passenger train traveling from London Victoria to Eastbourne derailed outside the town of Lewes on Thursday, causing three carriages to overturn. British Transport Police said about 150 people were on board, two of whom sustained serious injuries and 18 others suffered cuts and bruises.
The incident occurred on Britain’s hottest day of the year, with temperatures reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit in London. Emergency responders, including firefighters, paramedics, ambulances and three helicopters, treated passengers on site and evacuated the train.
"A significant emergency service response is ongoing at the scene, but all passengers on the train have now been safely evacuated from the service," said Assistant Chief Constable Ian Drummond-Smith of British Transport Police.
"Patients have been assessed and treated at the scene, with some transported to local hospitals for further treatment and care," a statement from South East Coast Ambulance Service added.
Southern Rail announced major service disruptions until further notice, citing the need for extensive inspections and recovery work before trains can resume.
The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has deployed inspectors to gather evidence, and the cause of the derailment remains under investigation. The incident follows a fatal train collision in June, prompting calls for answers and compensation from local officials.