A woman in her 20s has died and at least three other pedestrians have been injured after a van collided with them outside Bush House at the Strand Campus of King’s College London earlier today, March 18, 2025. The tragic incident occurred around 11:40 AM, as witnessed by many students and passersby who rushed to the scene.
The Metropolitan Police reported the details, stating, "Three pedestrians suffered injuries, with a woman in her twenties sadly pronounced dead at the scene." They confirmed one pedestrian was transported to the hospital with potentially life-threatening injuries, another with minor injuries, and one more was discharged at the scene.
Emergency services arrived quickly, cordoning off the area to facilitate their response. Eyewitness accounts highlighted the chaotic situation, with one first-year student, Miles, recounting, "It was nuts. I saw a van going so fast and swerving out of the way of people then I heard a loud crash." The panic escalated as paramedics reportedly performed CPR on the injured.
The van's driver, a 26-year-old man, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and for driving under the influence of drugs. He remains in police custody as investigations continue. Authorities have ruled out any connection to terrorism, reassuring the public of their safety.
Witness accounts also painted a vivid picture of the scene. A student observed one of the injured lying unconscious, stating, "I heard a loud crash from my classroom and saw one of the injured, just lying down, out, fully unconscious." Distress among students was palpable, as many were seen crying and reaching out to friends to check on their well-being.
The impact of this incident has sparked significant disruptions within the area. Access to both Bush House and the King’s Building is restricted, affecting student movement throughout the campus.
Officials remain on-site, appealing for information from anyone who witnessed the event. They stated, "Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or post @MetCC ref CAD 2771/18MARCH to assist with the investigation."
The resulting traffic disruptions extend beyond the immediate area, with London Transport informing commuters of delays and bus diversions due to the police activity amid the chaos following the crash. This has left many students and locals scrambling for alternative routes.
The pedestrian area around The Strand has been cordoned off, and the street is effectively closed to traffic as the police maintain control over the investigation. A police cordon, complete with safety signs, remains at the scene alongside visibly shaken witnesses.
The community at King’s College has come together, expressing support for those affected. Many students shared their grief over social media, with tributes pouring in for the victim and compassionate messages for those injured.
Statements from the college indicate they are liaising closely with emergency services to provide support and updates to students as more information becomes available. "We are aware of the incident and are supporting our students during this difficult time," said a King’s College London spokesperson.
This developing situation calls for vigilance and care among peers on campus and the surrounding community. The impact of today’s events will undoubtedly resonate with the King’s College community and beyond for some time.
Authorities have also reassured the public through various channels, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for community support to assist those who have been affected. With continuous updates from the Metropolitan Police, the focus now shifts to ensuring justice and providing aid where it’s needed most.
Updates will be provided as the investigation continues and more information is made available from the authorities.
