Six individuals have been transported to hospital following a significant collision involving two double-decker buses in south London, as confirmed by emergency services. The incident occurred at 8.05am on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in the Newington Causeway area of Southwark, prompting a swift response from authorities.
Details of the Bus Collision
According to Transport for London (TfL), the crash involved a route 35 bus that collided with a route 333 bus, which was not in service at the time. Photographs from the scene depicted one of the buses positioned alarmingly close to the window frontage of the Southwark Playhouse Borough theatre, raising concerns about potential damage to the cultural venue.
Emergency Response and Injuries
The London Ambulance Service reported that multiple people received treatment at the scene, with six requiring hospitalization for their injuries. A spokesperson emphasized that none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening or life-changing, providing some reassurance amidst the chaos.
The Metropolitan Police were alerted at 8.06am, just minutes after the crash, and officers quickly arrived to secure the area. In addition to ambulances, paramedics in fast-response cars and a hazardous area response team were deployed to manage the situation effectively.
Road Closures and Investigation
Following the collision, the road was closed in both directions to facilitate emergency operations and initial investigations. As of now, no arrests have been made, and police inquiries are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Statements from Transport Authorities
Lorna Murphy, TfL's director of buses, expressed sympathy for those affected, stating, "Our thoughts are with the people who were injured in a bus collision this morning in Southwark." She further highlighted that safety remains the top priority, with TfL collaborating closely with the police and the operator, Go Ahead London, to investigate the incident thoroughly.
This event underscores the critical importance of transport safety in urban areas, particularly in bustling locations like Southwark, where such incidents can disrupt daily life and pose risks to public welfare. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as they work to prevent similar occurrences in the future.