Eight injured as double decker bus roof torn off
Eight people have been hospitalized following a dramatic collision in Kilmarnock, where a double-decker bus struck a railway bridge, tearing off its roof. The incident occurred on Macphail Drive, near Culzean Crescent, around 2:00 PM, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
Police Scotland cordoned off the area as paramedics and emergency crews attended the scene. Social media footage captured the aftermath, showing the bus roof completely sheared off and stranded beneath the bridge. Passengers, including several teenagers, were seen standing on the roofless upper deck of the vehicle.
Just days after a similar crash in Glasgow involving a double-decker bus hitting a railway bridge, leaving one man critically injured, another incident occurred in Kilmarnock. Emergency services, including one ambulance and three response teams, responded promptly at 1:55 PM. Eight people were hospitalized, though no serious injuries were reported. Police Scotland has launched an investigation into the collision, which has raised concerns about safety on routes with low-clearance bridges.
The Stagecoach bus, part of the number six route heading toward Bellfield, attempted to pass under the low-clearance bridge on Macphail Drive. The bridge, marked for vehicles no taller than 8ft 3in (2.5m), proved impassable for the double-decker. The roof was completely torn off during the collision, remaining lodged beneath the bridge as the bus continued forward.
A teenager who was on the upper deck of the bus recounted the terrifying moment. He described the bus traveling at a speed of around 30 to 40 mph as it approached the bridge. Despite the driver applying brakes, the vehicle struck the low-clearance structure, causing glass and debris to shower down on passengers.
The teenager described how the bus veered off its intended route and attempted to pass under the low railway bridge, which was not suitable for its height. The impact crushed the roof, sending glass and debris scattering over passengers. He recounted the fear and chaos as those on board realized the collision was imminent. The loud crash and the sound of shattering glass added to the terrifying experience. Although he only suffered minor injuries, including scratches and a sore neck, the incident left him shaken, highlighting the danger and confusion during the moment of impact.
Authorities are examining the circumstances of the crash, focusing on whether the bus was traveling along its intended route. The low-clearance warning signs at the bridge are prominently displayed, prompting questions about how the vehicle came to be on this path. Stagecoach, the operator of the bus, has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident.
Local residents have voiced concerns about repeated accidents involving low-clearance bridges in the area, urging the implementation of stricter safety measures to prevent similar events. The crash underscores the risks posed by vehicles failing to adhere to height restrictions, highlighting the need for enhanced driver training and improved route management, particularly for double-decker buses. As investigations continue, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring compliance with established traffic regulations to protect public safety and prevent future accidents.