Investigation into Fatal Tram Derailment Underway

Image of derailed tram at Sandilands Junction © GOV.UK

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch is investigating a fatal accident that occurred near to Sandilands Junction on the London Tramlink system. At around 06:10 hrs on Wednesday 9 November 2016, a tram derailed on the approach to the junction, and turned onto its side. The accident resulted in a number of fatalities and serious injuries, yet to be confirmed by RAIB.

The tram was operating an ‘inbound’ service from New Addington to Wimbledon via Croydon town centre. Sandilands Junction is the point where inbound trams from the Beckenham Junction/Elmers End and New Addington routes converge, shortly before they arrive at Sandilands tram stop (to the east of Croydon town centre). 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.

Following the arrest of a 42-year-old man on suspicion of manslaughter, a statement from the British Transport Police today explains: 

‘A 42-year-old man arrested in connection with a derailment in Croydon yesterday has been released on police bail.’

‘The man from Beckenham has been bailed until May while investigations continue at the scene and officers work to establish the circumstances of the incident.’

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