A tragic accident occurred today on the Strand outside King’s College London, where one woman was killed, and at least three others were injured when a van struck multiple pedestrians. According to the Metropolitan Police, the incident took place around 11:40 AM, with the victim, described as being in her twenties, pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency responders arrived shortly after, between 11:55 AM and 12:00 PM, and swiftly cordoned off the area, which is situated near Bush House, the campus’s central hub. The stark reality of the incident unfolded before stunned students and staff, as accounts streamed from eyewitnesses. “It was nuts. I saw a van going so fast and swerving out of the way of people, then I heard a loud crash,” said KCL first-year student Miles, who witnessed the harrowing event.
Two other pedestrians were reportedly taken to the hospital, one suffering from potentially life-threatening injuries and the other sustaining minor injuries. Another individual involved was treated at the scene and discharged shortly after. The police confirmed to reporters from The King’s Tab and other media outlets about the serious condition of the injured and stated, "Three pedestrians suffered injuries, with the woman in her twenties sadly pronounced dead at the scene."
The driver of the van, identified as a 26-year-old man, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and driving under the influence of specified controlled drugs above legal limits. Authorities ruled out any terrorism-related motives for the crash, diverting focus to potential recklessness on the driver’s part. Eyewitnesses suggested the van was seen swerving erratically before plowing through the group. “You could hear screams and people were running toward her to help,” reported one bystander.
Local students described the chaotic situation, noting the typically pedestrian-friendly crossing where the accident occurred. PhD student Ali expressed disbelief: “We walk by the crossing all the time and it's pedestrianised; barely any vehicles pass.” Yet, this ordinary day turned tragic as the van struck, leading to confusion and panic among those present.
At least four people received treatment at the scene, according to the London Ambulance Service, with paramedics deploying quickly to provide aid. Despite their best efforts, they could not save the woman who succumbed to her injuries. “Emergency services tried... CPR... It didn’t work. So they covered her over,” explained another eyewitness, lending the scene a somber atmosphere.
The Strand has since been closed to traffic, from Surrey Street westbound to Waterloo Bridge, significantly impacting local bus routes, including numbers 9 and 23. This closure and the police investigation meant limited access for students and personnel trying to navigate around the area. While KCL has placed restrictions on entrances to Bush House, the community has been mobilized to respond to the shock of this incident.
King’s College London issued statements acknowledging the tragedy and indicating their readiness to support affected students and staff. Reports assert all KCLSU events scheduled for today, March 18, 2025, have been postponed, enabling focus on mental health support for those impacted. Support services are available for students at room K0.31, with staff on hand to assist.
This story continues to develop, with police maintaining presence and conducting investigations as they seek witnesses to the event. “Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or post @MetCC,” urged police authorities, emphasizing the need for public cooperation.
Stunned students have expressed their shock and devastation on social media, sharing condolences and reaching out to friends who may have been affected. This tragic accident has raised questions about safety on the streets and the susceptibility of pedestrians after the occurrence of such reckless actions.
Witness Josh, who was working mere meters from the incident, vividly described the moment, stating, “The iron gate collapsed as the van was coming out of the service yard. It was still going at speed and it ended up clipping a planter before going through the air.” His account reinforces the unpredictable nature of the situation as it unfolded.
Responses have poured from the community as many attempt to grapple with what transpired. The poignant reminder of how quickly life can change echoes throughout the campus as students support each other during this difficult time.”
Further updates will be shared as the police investigation continues and more information becomes available. This incident is not just another statistic but rather reminds us of the importance of driver responsibility and pedestrian safety.
