A train has derailed in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire which has been declared an “extremely serious incident.”
At the scene there are more than 30 emergency response vehicles including at least three air ambulances, fire engines with more arriving, in a field nearby. Footage posted on social media shows thick black smoke billowing from the scene.
Our thoughts are with everyone involved in the train derailment at Stonehaven today
Stay safe folks pic.twitter.com/Da7njJpwF4
— Keith Football Club (@KeithFC) August 12, 2020
Scotland has been hit with torrential rain and severe flooding, which saw people standing knee deep in the town of Stonehaven. It has not been confirmed that this is the reason for the derailment.
Network Rail Scotland said they were “working alongside the emergency services to respond to an incident involving a train near Stonehaven.”
A spokesperson added,”It is too early to confirm the exact nature and severity of the incident and more details will be made available once known.”
In a statement, British Transport Police (BTP) said, “Officers were called to the scene at 9.43am and remain there alongside paramedics and the fire brigade.”
More pics from Stonehaven Train derailment pic.twitter.com/9ZdcEobq6V
— Ringo Lennon (@Ringo_Lennon123) August 12, 2020
According to PA news agency, there are unconfirmed reports that at least one person has died.
Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed that a “major incident has been declared” and there are reports of people having “serious injuries.”
A ScotRail spokesman said, “We’re assisting the emergency services with an incident near Stonehaven, and will provide more information when available.”
Mick Lynch, the assistant general secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union said: “RMT is aware of the major incident at Stonehaven and our reps are liaising directly at senior level with both Scotrail and Network Rail.
“Our priority at this time is to support our members, their colleagues and their families and to do all that we can to assist the rescue operation which RMT members are currently involved in.
“The facts behind this incident will need to be established in due course but at this stage we are focused on support and assistance and our thoughts are with all those impacted by this tragedy.”
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