Tanker driver in Suffolk rail crash is from Ely area

THE 38-YEAR-old driver of a sewerage tanker that collided with a train in Suffolk is from the Ely area, it has been revealed.

THE 38-YEAR-old driver of a sewerage tanker that collided with a train in Suffolk is from the Ely area, it has been revealed.

The man, who is though to be of eastern European origin, is being quizzed by police in connection with the derailment of a busy passenger train at the unmanned level crossing in Little Cornard near Sudbury, on Monday evening.

The man is being held at Bury St Edmunds police station where he is being interviewed by transport officers.

He was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving.

According to police, there were 21 casualties as a result of the incident. A 58-year-old man sustained life-threatening injuries, and he was described yesterday (Wenesday) as being in a serious, but stable condition.

A further five people – three men and two women – remained in hospital at Colchester General on Wednesday. Their injuries consisted of broken ribs, back pain, chest pain and heavy bruising.

One has so far been discharged and the other four are expected to be discharged tomorrow. One other person also remained at West Suffolk Hospital.

As part of their investigations into the incident, officers from British Transport Police have spent the last 48-hours examining the scene of the incident and gathering “physical and technical evidence,” said Deputy Chief Constable Paul Crowther.

“Also overnight, we have been planning how best to facilitate the recovery operation and a 130 tonne crane is being brought to the site later today,” he said. “We are mindful of the impact this incident has had on the local community, who have been very supportive throughout.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to call British Transport Police on 0800 405040.