Seventeen people were injured when a double-decker bus carrying college students crashed into the River Itchen in Eastleigh this morning, with three patients taken to hospital and 14 treated at the scene.
The Bluestar 607 service, transporting pupils to Barton Peveril Sixth Form College, plunged into the river after leaving Bishopstoke Road shortly after 10am.
Three casualties, including the bus driver, were rushed to hospital whilst 14 others received treatment at the scene, South Central Ambulance Service confirmed. A support centre has been established at The Hub in Bishopstoke for worried parents.
South Central Ambulance Service stated: “Multiple units were deployed to the incident, including five ambulances, two helicopters, and specialist response teams. We continue to support and assess patients on scene. All passengers have been removed from the vehicle. Three high-priority casualties are being transported to hospital. Approximately 14 with minor injuries are receiving treatment on scene.”
The B3037 remains closed in both directions, causing delays between Chickenhall Lane and Riverside. Hampshire Police warned the route “could remain shut for up to 12 hours for investigation and recovery operations”.
The college commented: “Staff are liaising closely with police to ensure student safety and wellbeing. We request people do not visit the incident location.”
Bluestar General Manager Richard Tyldsley said: “One of our vehicles, carrying students to Barton Peveril College, was involved in an incident this morning on Bishopstoke Road, Eastleigh. Reports indicate the bus departed the carriageway and came to rest in shallow water.
“Nineteen passengers were aboard at the time. Our driver and at least two passengers have sustained confirmed injuries, with updates awaited on others aboard.
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“We currently lack complete details regarding their injuries and are monitoring their condition closely. Our thoughts remain with everyone involved, and we hope for swift recoveries for the injured.
“We do not yet understand the circumstances surrounding this incident and are conducting an immediate investigation. We are also supporting police with their enquiries.”
A heavy-duty crane to assist with removing the bus from the water has arrived as police maintain road closures.
The air ambulance and several ground ambulances have departed as recovery operations commence.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service crews responded to the incident and urged the public to avoid the area.
