Two severely injured as train derails in southeast England

Two individuals suffered severe injuries after a Southern Rail commuter train derailed near Lewes, southeast England, on Thursday, according to emergency services. Approximately 150 passengers were onboard the train that departed from London Victoria station and derailed shortly before 4:00 pm (1500 GMT), reported the ambulance service.

Visuals from the incident site displayed over three overturned carriages and paramedics on the scene. The origin of the mishap remains undetermined. Deputy chief paramedic officer Michael Bradfield disclosed during a press conference that among the 20 individuals transported to the hospital, two were deemed severe and were transferred to a major trauma center.

Ian Drummond-Smith of the British Transport Police announced that a major incident had been declared, yet all passengers had been securely evacuated. Network Rail's route director for Sussex, Lucy McAuliffe, stated they are collaborating closely with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch, who are present at the site to determine the exact circumstances.

Train accidents, particularly fatal ones, are uncommon in Britain. A train collision north of London resulted in one driver's death and dozens of injuries in June, while a derailment caused by a landslide in remote northwestern England left four people with minor injuries in November.