Death toll rises to seven after tram accident in Croydon with 42-year-old man arrested on suspicion of manslaughter

By: and

Seven people have been killed in a tram accident in Croydon, south London, this morning, British Transport Police (BTP) have confirmed.

London Ambulance Service said eight people had serious or life-threatening injuries and a total of 51 had been taken to two hospitals.

“After liaison with the Coroner, we can confirm that at least seven people have lost their lives as a result of this incident," Deputy Chief Constable Adrian Hanstock said in an updated statement.

“We expect to be at the scene for at least the next 24 hours, continuing searches and carrying out forensic examinations in support of the investigation into the circumstances, and in order to provide a report for the Coroner.

“Tomorrow, we will assess how and when it is appropriate to recover the tram and remove it from the tracks."

Details on the accident

A tram derailed and overturned at the Sandilands stop just after 6am, trapping five passengers, according to the London Fire Brigade. 

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has said: "Trams approaching from the New Addington direction have to negotiate a sharp, left-hand curve with a speed limit of 20 km/h (12 mph) before reaching the junction.

"The derailment occurred on the curve and initial indications suggest that the tram was travelling at a significantly higher speed than is permitted."

It is currently collecting evidence to identify the cause of the accident and its consequences.

A 42-year-old man from Beckenham has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and is currently in police custody.

Mike Brown MVO, commissioner of Transport for London, said: "Clearly something has gone catastrophically wrong and we will work tirelessly and quickly with the emergency services, the tram operator First Group and others to establish the cause. My team will continue to be available in Croydon to assist those affected and the wider community in the area."

Emergency services advice

BTP has advised anyone concerned about friends or relatives to call the Casualty Bureau on 0800 056 0154

The London Ambulance Service asked that people "please only call in an emergency", as staff are busy following the Croydon incident.

Police have asked that people avoid the area and check with Transport for London for any travel updates.

 

Politicians respond

Transport secretary Chris Grayling said: "I am aware of the serious incident in Croydon this morning. I know emergency services are working extremely hard at the scene and my thoughts are with all those involved."

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: "I am in contact with emergency services and TfL, who are working extremely hard to get the situation under control and treat those who have been injured.

"My thoughts are with all those involved in this incident. We are asking people to please visit the TfL website, tfl.gov.uk, for the latest travel information."​

Latest travel advice

There is currently no tram service between East Croydon and Addington Village/Harrington Road/Elmers End and a limited service on the rest of the line. Services are unlikely to run on this route for the rest of today and tomorrow.

The A232 Addiscombe Road is closed and some buses have been diverted. Tram tickets are accepted on alternative TfL and National Rail services. Additional bus services are running on routes 130, 289, 367 and 466.

For full details and alternative travel options, visit tfl.gov.uk/tram-incident.

 

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