Van Crash Into Pedestrians Near King’s College London, leaving one woman dead and several others injured in a tragic incident that has shocked the city. The crash occurred at about 11:40 GMT on the Strand, a busy central London area near Somerset House and the Indian Embassy.
While the cause of the crash is still under investigation, authorities have arrested the 26-year-old van driver on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and drug-driving. As emergency services responded to the devastating scene, students and passersby described the chaos and heartbreak that unfolded in the aftermath.
Eyewitness Accounts and Immediate Response
Eyewitnesses reported scenes of confusion and distress as the crash unfolded. Miles Damone, a student at King’s College London, described how the van came from a side road near the Indian Embassy before making a sharp turn and crashing into pedestrians.
The impact left four people injured, with one woman tragically losing her life despite the best efforts of paramedics at the scene. Ali, a PhD student at King’s College, initially believed that the heavy emergency presence was related to a protest outside the university.
However, as he watched ambulance workers carry stretchers, he realized the severity of the situation. “It is so sad and hard to process,” he said, expressing his condolences to the victim’s family and friends. He also noted that the area is usually pedestrianized, making the crash all the more shocking.
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Another student, Gian Giacomo, arrived at the university just as emergency services were responding. He described the overwhelming confusion as paramedics treated three injured people on the pavement.
🚨 London- 🇬🇧
— OneSi𝕏TwoThree (@OneSixTwoThree1) March 18, 2025
VAN COLLIDES WITH PEDESTRIANS NEAR KING'S COLLEGE LONDON – CAMPUS ON LOCKDOWN
‼️ ONE CONFIRMED DEAD- a woman has died as a consequence of being hit by the van!!
‼️ The driver of the van, a 26-year-old man, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death… pic.twitter.com/65u6O9C6Qe
At the time, many bystanders were unaware of what had happened until reports emerged about the van hitting pedestrians. The London Ambulance Service (LAS) later confirmed that four people had been treated at the scene, with two transported to the hospital—one with potentially life-threatening injuries.
Arrest of the Driver and Ongoing Investigation
The driver of the van, a 26-year-old man, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and drug-driving. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that he remains in custody as investigations continue. While early reports have ruled out terrorism as a motive, authorities are still piecing together the events leading up to the crash.
Investigators are likely examining whether the driver was under the influence of drugs at the time, given the nature of the charges against him.
Toxicology tests and a thorough review of the vehicle’s movements will help determine the exact cause of the collision. Law enforcement officials are also appealing for witnesses and any available CCTV footage that could provide further clarity.
A spokesperson for King’s College London acknowledged the incident and confirmed that the university was cooperating with emergency services. The university community has been deeply affected, with many students and faculty members expressing their condolences for the victim and concerns for those injured.
Community Reaction and Safety Concerns
The fatal crash has sparked discussions about pedestrian safety in central London, particularly in areas with high foot traffic. The Strand, where the incident occurred, is a busy area frequented by students, office workers, and tourists.
Many people familiar with the location have expressed their shock, noting that the area is primarily pedestrianized, with minimal vehicular movement.
In light of this tragedy, there have been renewed calls for stricter traffic regulations and improved pedestrian safety measures. Some residents and students have suggested better barriers, speed restrictions, and increased surveillance to prevent similar incidents in the future. Others have raised concerns about reckless driving and the potential dangers posed by impaired drivers.
The incident has also drawn attention to the emotional impact on witnesses and first responders. Several students who were present at the scene have described feelings of shock and sorrow, struggling to comprehend how a routine walk near their university could turn into a moment of tragedy.
Mental health professionals emphasize the importance of providing support to those who witnessed the crash and may be dealing with trauma. As Londoners mourn the loss of a life and pray for the recovery of the injured, the focus now turns to the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are committed to uncovering the full details of what led to this devastating event, and justice will be sought for the victims. The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance in urban areas where pedestrians and vehicles share space.