The investigation into yesterday’s train derailment near Lewes is continuing, with specialist teams assessing damage to the railway infrastructure and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) working to establish what caused the incident.
A Southern service from London Victoria to Eastbourne derailed just north of Lewes station at approximately 3.55pm on 13 August. Three carriages came off the track and tipped onto their sides, with more than 100 passengers on board. Emergency responders evacuated those on the train.
Two passengers sustained serious injuries and remain in hospital, although British Transport Police (BTP) has confirmed that their injuries are not considered life-threatening. A further 18 people were taken to hospital with less serious injuries following the incident, but all have since been discharged.
Network Rail has deployed specialist teams to assess the condition of the railway infrastructure following the derailment. The extent of the damage and the work required to restore the railway are still being assessed.
Rail services between Lewes, London, Brighton and Eastbourne remain subject to major disruption, with no indication yet of when normal services will resume.
The focus of the investigation is now on establishing what happened rather than speculating on the cause. Network Rail has said it would not be appropriate to comment on the cause while the RAIB conducts its investigation.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has also confirmed that its investigation is under way. HM Chief Inspector of Railways Richard Hines said the regulator’s priority was to understand what happened, ensure risks were properly addressed and identify lessons that could be acted upon across the industry.
Hines also highlighted the response of railway staff, emergency services, and members of the public, whose actions helped passengers following what he described as a deeply distressing incident. He stressed the importance of relying on evidence rather than speculation while the investigation progresses.
BTP officers remain at the scene and are supporting RAIB inspectors with their enquiries. The force expects a continued police presence in the area over the coming days.
BTP is also appealing to anyone who was travelling on the derailed train and has not yet spoken to officers to come forward. The force said some passengers left the area after being evacuated and took alternative routes home and is seeking to speak to those who have not yet provided information.
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