Three killed in Aberdeenshire train crash

Three people have died after a train crashed south of Stonehaven this morning.

The driver and the conductor of the ScotRail service, along with a passenger, lost their lives.

Six others have been taken to hospital with injuries, which are not thought to be serious.

Emergency services were called to the scene at 9.40am today, amid reports of landslides in the area.

A statement from police said: "British Transport Police (BTP) were called to the line in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire at 9.43am this morning following a report that a train travelling from Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street had derailed.

"Officers remain on scene this afternoon alongside the ambulance service, fire brigade and colleagues from Police Scotland.

"Very sadly despite the best efforts of paramedics, we can confirm that three people have been pronounced dead at the scene.

"While formal identification is yet to take place, the driver of the train is very sadly believed to have died. His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

"Officers are continuing to work to inform the families of the other two people who sadly died.

"Six people have been taken to hospital to be treated for injuries, which thankfully are not believed to be serious."

Chief Superintendent Eddie Wylie said: "This is a tragic incident and first and foremost our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have very sadly died this morning.

"We remain on scene alongside our emergency service colleagues, and a major incident operation has been underway. I would like to reassure the public that this was not a busy service, and from CCTV enquiries and witness statements we believe all passengers have been accounted for.

"However, once the area has been made safe then a full and thorough search will be conducted, which is likely to take some time.

"I know many people will understandably have questions, and we will be working closely alongside the Rail Accident Investigation Branch and the Office of Rail and Road to establish the full circumstances of how the train came to derail."

Alex Hynes, managing director of ScotRail, said: "We are working closely and quickly with the emergency services on the incident near Stonehaven.

"Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by this tragic event, particularly the families of those who have lost their lives.

"The railway in Scotland is often referred to as a family, and it’s one that is hurting today. We have teams on site and we will do all we can to support everyone affected.

"We are working closely with all the relevant authorities to establish the cause of this incident."