Emergency services descended upon East London this afternoon following a serious incident involving a double-decker bus that collided with a building in Manor Park.
The dramatic crash occurred on Romford Road, a major thoroughfare, prompting a massive response from police, ambulance crews, and fire services. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as the Route 147 bus veered off course and struck a property near the junction with Shrewsbury Road.
Emergency Response and Injuries
London Ambulance Service confirmed treating multiple patients at the scene, though the exact number and severity of injuries remain unconfirmed. Paramedics worked tirelessly to assess and treat those affected while establishing a triage area near the crash site.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson stated: "We were called to reports of a road traffic collision involving a bus and a building. Fire crews are working to make the scene safe and assist other emergency services."
Major Disruption to Transport
The incident has caused significant disruption to the area, with Romford Road completely closed in both directions between Shrewsbury Road and Forest Drive. Transport for London has confirmed diversions are in place for several bus routes serving the area.
Commuters and local residents are being advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. The extent of damage to both the bus and the building remains under assessment by structural engineers.
Investigation Underway
Metropolitan Police officers have secured the scene and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Traffic specialists are examining evidence to determine what caused the bus to leave the road.
Local businesses and residents have expressed shock at the incident, with many describing the loud impact and subsequent emergency response. The bus operator has been notified and is cooperating fully with authorities.
Transport for London has assured the public that a full investigation will be conducted once the immediate emergency response is complete. The priority remains ensuring the safety of all involved and restoring normal traffic flow to the area.