A man has died following a collision between two trains in Wales, British Transport Police have said. A further 15 people have been taken to hospital after the collision near Llanbrynmair in Powys, although police said their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. All passengers have been evacuated from both trains.
BTP Superintendent Andrew Morgan said: “We can sadly confirm a man has died following this evening’s incident. We extend our deepest sympathies to his loved ones, alongside everyone else impacted and specialist officers continue to provide support.”
He said the BTP was working hand in hand with emergency services and the rail industry “to understand the circumstances leading up to this collision”. He added: “Residents will see an increased policing presence in the area in the coming days as a result.”
The low-speed collision involving two trains happened just before 7pm on Monday, police said. Network Rail and Transport for Wales said the incident involved the Transport for Wales 6.31pm service from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and the Transport for Wales 7.09pm service from Machynlleth to Shrewsbury.
In a joint statement, the two organisations said: “Our first thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the man who has lost his life, as well as all the other people involved in this incident. We’re extremely grateful to the emergency services who attended the scene and helped our passengers and staff in challenging circumstances. We are working closely with other agencies, including emergency services, to understand how this incident happened and they will have our full support.”
They said the Cambrian railway west of Machynlleth will remain closed while specialist teams investigate the collision. Multiple emergency services, including the Welsh Ambulance Service, Mid and West Wales Fire Service, Dyfed Powys Police and the HM Coastguard, have been working alongside railway workers at the scene.
First Minister of Wales Eluned Morgan said: “My thoughts are with all those involved in the rail incident in Powys earlier this evening. I would like to thank the emergency services for their response and have asked to be kept informed of any developments throughout the night.”