A child believed to be around eight years old was rushed to a major trauma centre 'as a priority' following a road collision in Croydon on the evening of September 17. Emergency services responded to the junction of Arnhem Drive and St Edwards Close in New Addington shortly before 5.05pm after reports of a crash involving a young cyclist.
Emergency response and treatment
Paramedics and London's Air Ambulance treated the boy at the scene before he was transported by road to a major trauma centre, according to the London Ambulance Service. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the crash was not fatal but declined to provide further details about the child's condition when approached.
The London Ambulance Service stated: "We were called at 5.04pm yesterday (17 September) to reports of a road traffic collision at the junction of Arnhem Drive and St Edwards Close, New Addington. We sent an ambulance crew, paramedics in fast response cars and an incident response officer to the scene. We also dispatched London’s Air Ambulance. We treated a patient at the scene and took him to a major trauma centre by road as a priority."
Road closures and diversions
Arnhem Drive was closed in both directions between Central Parade and Milne Park East for more than five hours while accident investigation work was carried out. The closure forced bus routes 130 and 464 to be diverted, though both services have since resumed their normal routes.
It remains unclear whether anyone has been arrested in connection with the incident. The Metropolitan Police has not released additional information about the circumstances of the crash or the child's current condition.
Investigation and impact
The road closure and subsequent investigation caused significant disruption in the New Addington area, affecting local traffic and public transport for several hours. The London Ambulance Service's swift response, including the deployment of air ambulance resources, highlighted the severity of the incident.
As of now, authorities have not provided an update on the child's recovery, and the investigation into the collision is ongoing. Residents and commuters are advised to stay informed through local news channels for any further updates from the Metropolitan Police or the London Ambulance Service.
