A tragic train collision occurred near Llanbrynmair in Powys on the evening of October 21, 2024, resulting in one passenger fatality and 15 others receiving treatment for injuries. Witnesses described a harrowing scene as passengers were thrown to the floor upon impact, with images revealing a crumpled carriage.
On the morning following the incident, investigators arrived at the site to determine the factors leading to the collision on a single-track section of the Cambrian line, which includes a passing loop designed for trains to alternate passing each other. Preliminary reports suggest that the train designated to stop did not, although the low-speed nature of the collision prevented derailment.
Authorities have launched a multi-agency investigation, examining potential causes, including the effects of autumn leaves on rail conditions, which can create dangerous situations akin to black ice on roads.
Survivors reported a range of injuries, with some suffering broken bones, though officials stated that none of the injuries were considered life-threatening. Witness Jonah Evans, 25, recalled the moment of impact: “There was a train that was stopped and the other train couldn’t stop. The driver warned us to brace ourselves, and injuries followed, with some losing teeth and others with cracked ribs.”
Anthony Hurford, a passenger en route to Shrewsbury, described the frightening experience: “We went from maybe 40 or 50 miles per hour to a sudden stop. My laptop飛 was thrown ahead of me, and I was left on the floor, completely stunned. There were so many emergency responders; it was overwhelming.”
In a joint statement, Network Rail and Transport for Wales confirmed that the collision occurred at 7:29 PM on October 21. They expressed condolences to the loved ones of the deceased and highlighted the ongoing closure of the Cambrian railway as investigations continue.
British Transport Police Superintendent Andrew Morgan also addressed the media, confirming the death and extending sympathies to the victims and their families. He indicated that a comprehensive investigation was underway to clarify the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Emergency services, including the Welsh ambulance service and Dyfed Powys police, responded promptly to the situation, and the First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, expressed her gratitude to the responders while extending her thoughts to all affected.
The incident recalls a previous train collision in Salisbury in October 2020, where similar conditions related to rail maintenance and autumn leaves played a role in causing injuries.
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