A passenger train derailed southeast of Wickford station, Essex, on 14 August 2026, while traveling between Southend Victoria and London Liverpool Street. Operated by Greater Anglia, the two-class 720 electric multiple units had their rearmost vehicle derail, with wheels running on sleepers and ballast for 1.5 miles. No injuries were reported among the 62 passengers. Preliminary data indicated the train was traveling at 77 mph when it derailed. The driver reported a kink in the track, confirmed by CCTV, and was braking due to an emergency call from an opposing train. Damage occurred to the train, opposing train, and track infrastructure. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch will examine the incident, including track conditions, mitigation measures for hot weather, and operational factors. The investigation is independent of industry and regulatory bodies. Findings will be published upon completion.
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