Track defect found in Lewes train derailment

A preliminary investigation into a train derailment near Lewes, East Sussex, has revealed a preexisting defect on the railway tracks, which occurred during extreme heat on August 13, leaving 30 people injured. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) said its initial findings identified a "track geometry irregularity" visible in CCTV images from trains that passed the location before the accident.

The incident involved the 14:24 Southern service from London Victoria to Eastbourne, which derailed at approximately 15:54 local time in the Landport area of Lewes. The eight-carriage train was traveling at about 65 mph, within the 70 mph speed limit, when the driver applied the brakes as it passed the point of derailment. The rear three carriages left the tracks, overturning onto their sides on an embankment and trapping passengers inside.

According to the RAIB, about 150 people were on board the train. In total, 30 were injured, with two people sustaining serious injuries that were not deemed life-threatening. Twenty passengers required hospital treatment, and all have since been discharged. Police declared a major incident at the scene.

The RAIB's interim report stated that CCTV...