Statement on Bedford Train Crash
Date: 19 June 2026An updated statement on the East of England Ambulance Service response to the collision involving two trains at Elstow, near Bedford, on Friday 19 June.
Updated Statement at 12:30 on Saturday 20 June 2026
Paul Gates BEM, Deputy Chief Paramedic at the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust who was strategic commander for the incident
“The East of England Ambulance Service would like to thank everyone involved in the large-scale emergency response to this major incident.
"We would also like to thank those affected for their cooperation and understanding while our crews worked swiftly to assess, triage and treat a high number of casualties.
"Tragically, one person died at the scene. Eleven people sustained very serious injuries, a further 32 were seriously injured, and 57 others suffered minor injuries. Those with less serious injuries were treated at the scene or taken to hospital where necessary.
"In total, we transported 64 people to six hospitals.
"We dispatched a significant number of resources, including more than 20 ambulances, specialist Hazardous Area Response Teams, and six air ambulances.
"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident. We also extend our sincere thanks to all emergency service colleagues for their swift, coordinated and professional response.”
Statement issued at 21:59 on Friday 19 June 2026
The East of England Ambulance Service was called to a collision involving two trains at Elstow, near Bedford, at around 5:15pm.
We quickly declared a Major Incident and put our emergency response plans into action.
We sent a large number of resources to the scene, including more than 20 ambulances, specialist Hazardous Area Response Teams, and six air ambulances.
All patients with the most serious injuries have now been taken from the scene to hospital.
Sadly, one person died at the scene. A further 11 people suffered very serious injuries, 22 were seriously injured, and a further 56 people had minor injuries. Those with minor injuries were treated at the scene or taken to hospital where needed.
Our thoughts are with everyone affected, and we thank all emergency service colleagues for their swift response.
