At least two people have sustained serious injuries after a passenger train derailed near Lewes railway station in East Sussex, England, prompting a large-scale emergency response involving multiple agencies.
The incident occurred at about 3:55 p.m. when the 2:24 p.m. Southern Railway service travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne left the tracks. Reports indicate that three of the train’s eight carriages overturned, leaving several passengers trapped inside.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene as approximately 150 passengers were believed to be on board. Images and videos circulating online showed overturned carriages in a rural area, with some passengers standing on top of the train after the derailment. Footage recorded inside the train appeared to capture the carriage shaking violently before passengers were thrown from their seats.
According to South East Coast Ambulance Service, two passengers suffered serious injuries and were taken to major trauma centres for specialist treatment. The agency also confirmed that several others were treated at the scene, while some were transported to nearby hospitals for further medical care.
Passengers who did not require hospital treatment were taken to a local community centre, where they received support from emergency response partners. Authorities described the operation as a complex and ongoing multi-agency response.
British Transport Police confirmed that an additional 18 people sustained minor injuries. Although some passengers were initially trapped inside the overturned carriages, all were safely evacuated by around 7:30 p.m., while the major incident remained in effect.
Among those on board was Rob Bradley, who was travelling with his six-year-old daughter, Mabel. Recalling the terrifying experience, Bradley said the train suddenly began speeding up and rocking before it appeared to lift off the tracks. He said the emergency brakes were applied moments later as the train skidded for some distance before finally coming to a stop.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the derailment.