British Transport Police has confirmed that eight people remain in a critical condition in hospital today (22 June), following the train crash close to Bedford on Friday evening (19 July).
Officers were called to the line by Elstow, Bedfordshire at 5.15pm on Friday following reports that two East Midlands Railway trains had collided. A major incident was declared and a significant emergency service response took place – with support from our colleagues at Bedfordshire Police, the local Fire and Rescue and Ambulance Services and the National Police Air Service.
Over 100 people have received treatment at hospital. 53 of those remain in hospital today and eight are in a critical condition. These numbers are changing frequently and are likely to continue to change as the week moves forward.
Tragically, the driver of one of the trains was pronounced dead at the scene. Shaun Burton’s family paid tribute to the 60-year-old yesterday and are being supported by specialist officers from BTP.
Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy said: “First and foremost, the thoughts of everyone at BTP are with the driver Shaun Burton’s family and colleagues, and all those injured and affected by the collision on Friday.
“This is a priority investigation for BTP and our experienced senior investigating officer is working in parallel with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch to establish the full circumstances of how this incident came to happen. We have recovered personal property from the two trains and will shortly be providing an update on how affected passengers can retrieve their belongings.
“Friday evening witnessed an awful incident that presented complexities and challenges for all those who responded. I have been humbled by the actions of passengers and staff who were on the trains, and by the professionalism of our officers, the wider emergency services and partners.
“The recovery operation is now underway, and work continues this week to remove the damaged trains and carriages and allow the railway to reopen.
“Lastly, our investigation team are looking to speak to everyone who was on the affected trains at the time of the collision. I would urge anyone who hasn’t already spoken to police to get in touch with BTP.”