A person has been killed after a train struck a van at a level crossing in Kent.
Emergency services rushed to the scene of the crash off Lower Road in Teynham, near Sittingbourne, this afternoon.
Police confirmed a person was pronounced dead at the scene as shocking footage posted on social media appears to show the vehicle in flames following the collision.
The line between Newington and Faversham is blocked in both directions as officers investigate the tragedy.
A spokesman for British Transport Police (BTP) told The Independent: “Officers were called to the line in Tonge just after 12.45pm today (13 July) following reports of a train striking a van.
“Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is currently being investigated.”
First responders from South East Coast Ambulance Service and Kent Fire and Rescue Service also attended the incident, along with officers from Kent Police who are assisting BTP.
Southeastern’s managing director Steve White confirmed there would be major disruption following the collision.
He posted on X: “The @Se_Railway is closed near Teynham following a train hitting a van on a level crossing.
“Replacement buses are operating between Gillingham & Faversham and Sheerness & Sittingbourne. We are working with the emergency services.”
Reports on social media, which claim the train was a high-speed London-bound service, appear to show a vehicle in flames and as emergency crews close off the road.
Commuters have been warned to expect disruption until 6pm.
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