Glasgow’s streets witnessed another alarming incident involving public transport as an eight-passenger double-decker bus collided with a railway bridge on Cook Street, just before 6 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Among the injured, one person remains in critically unstable condition, which has heightened concern over the city's transport safety.
The collision, reported at approximately 5:55 p.m., set off emergency alerts across the city as police, fire crews, and the Scottish Ambulance Service rushed to the scene, closing multiple nearby roads to manage the aftermath. Images from Cook Street reveal significant damage with the bus wedged beneath the bridge, having its roof torn off.
Five of the eight injured were taken by ambulance to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for treatment, where one individual was described as being critically injured. Meanwhile, others who were assessed on the scene attended nearby hospitals for evaluations.
First Bus confirmed the details surrounding the incident, stating, "We are aware of numerous injuries, with five individuals taken to hospital. We have launched an immediate investigation and are assisting Police Scotland with their enquiries. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident." This statement reflects the company’s commitment to addressing the severe consequences of the crash.
Eyewitness Spike Turner, who was sitting close to the front of the bus, recounted the horrifying moments as the bus struck the bridge. He indicated, "The driver had taken a wrong turn and crashed 'straight'into the bridge.' I was fine, but the man in the front seat was injured severely with lots of blood and a massive gash on his head." His account reveals the chaos and danger passengers faced during the impact.
It’s worth noting this isn’t the first incident at this troublesome site. Back in May 2023, the same bridge was the scene of another collision, which led to ten people being injured. Such recurring events have raised alarms and highlighted the need for increased safety measures. Spike mentioned, “The bridge itself wasn’t high enough to hit anyone’s heads, but parts of the bus exterior swung down, endangering passengers.”
The police advised motorists to avoid the area as multiple routes, including Cook Street at Centre Street, and Commerce Street closed up to Wallace Street, were part of emergency management. The resulting chaos also affected local public transport; ScotRail services were canceled or delayed as crews dealt with the fallout, disrupting travel for many. Various alternative transportation arrangements were offered to accommodate impacted passengers.
According to police reports, "Emergency services attended and five people were taken by ambulance to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for treatment. One person is described as being critically injured. Three others were assessed at the scene and attended at hospital." This formal acknowledgment of impact provides depth to the narrative as it outlines official responses to the injuries reported.
Local authorities and transportation representatives continue to address public transport safety seriously, echoing sentiments voiced by Network Rail, which stated, "Bridge strikes like this cost taxpayers millions of pounds each year and are entirely preventable. We urge drivers to always think about the height and size of their vehicles, including any loads they are carrying, and to carefully plan their routes to avoid incidents like this."
With the roadways reopened shortly after midnight following the necessary clear-up efforts, residents and commuters look toward explanations and newfound measures to prevent recurrences of such devastating crashes. The quick response of emergency crews undoubtedly mitigated what could have been even worse outcomes.
Authorities have confirmed they are actively investigating the incident's circumstances, promising full transparency and accountability to the public and all affected parties. Every crash like this underlines the fragility of transport systems, leaving communities concerned and engaged as they demand safer travel conditions.
While emergency services remain vigilant, the questions around future safety loom large. With public transport being the lifeline for many commuters within Glasgow, how will local authorities adjust regulations and infrastructure to prevent similar incidents? The echoes of past incidents resonate as Glasgow seeks to prioritize the safety of its passengers and improve public trust.
