Nine people in critical condition following Bedford train crash which killed driver
Two East Midlands Railway services collided yesterday afternoon
Twenty eight people remain in hospital, nine of them in a critical condition, after two trains collided near Bedford, police have said.
The crash, which killed a train driver, involved two East Midlands Railway (EMR) services, one smashing into the back of the other on the same line shortly after 5pm yesterday (Friday 19th June 2026)
Speaking at a press conference near the scene today (Saturday 20th June 2026), British Transport Police Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi said:
“Tragically, the driver of one of the trains died in the collision.
“His family have been informed and our deepest condolences are with them, his friends, and his colleagues at East Midlands Railway.
“The driver’s family, as you would expect, are being supported by specially trained officers at this difficult time.
“Over 80 people were treated at hospital last night.
“As of this morning, 28 remain in hospital, and nine are in a critical condition.”
The two trains involved were the 4.40pm departure from Corby and the 3.50pm departure from Nottingham, both to London St Pancras.
Royal College of Nursing general secretary and chief executive Professor Nicola Ranger said: “Our thoughts and wishes are with all of those affected by this tragic incident, particularly with the family, friends and colleagues of the driver who lost his life.
“We also send our thanks to the first responders who acted so quickly, including the nursing staff, some of whom came in whilst off duty to care for the injured.
“They no doubt worked under very challenging circumstances to care for all those affected.”
King Charles is said to be “greatly saddened” by the rail crash.
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “His Majesty is greatly saddened by the rail crash in Bedford yesterday evening and is being kept regularly updated on developments.
“His thoughts and sympathies are with the family of the deceased and with all those injured or affected by such a tragic incident.”