A passenger train derailed near Wickford, Essex, on Friday, the second in England in two days.
Why it matters: The two derailments are disrupting rail travel in southeast England, including commuter routes used by London-area travelers. Both incidents are under investigation, and authorities have not indicated any link between them.
- British Transport Police said the Wickford derailment happened Friday near Wickford station in Essex.
- Police said the rear carriages derailed but remained upright, and no injuries were reported.
- A separate derailment happened Thursday near Lewes, East Sussex, on a London-to-Eastbourne train.
- AP reported that the Lewes derailment left 2 people seriously injured and 18 others with minor injuries, with around 150 people aboard.
A passenger train derailed near Wickford station in Essex on Friday, British Transport Police said. The rear carriages left the tracks but remained upright, and no injuries were reported, according to police and AP.
The Wickford derailment came one day after a separate incident near Lewes in East Sussex. AP reported that three carriages overturned on the London-to-Eastbourne service, leaving 2 people seriously injured and 18 others with minor injuries. The outlet said around 150 people were aboard the train.
British Transport Police said the cause of the Wickford derailment was under investigation. National Rail said major disruptions to train services were expected through Friday afternoon after the Wickford incident. The Lewes derailment was also under investigation at the time of reporting.
The two incidents fell on consecutive days and affected rail travel in southeast England, including commuter routes tied to London.
By the numbers
- 2 - passenger train derailments in England over two days
- 0 - injuries reported in the Wickford derailment
- 150 - people aboard the Lewes train, according to AP
Yes, but: Authorities have not indicated that the Wickford and Lewes derailments are linked.
What's next: British Transport Police and rail officials are continuing their investigations, and National Rail said service disruptions were expected through Friday afternoon.