
One dead after van bursts into flames following crash with high-speed train
The van caught fire on impact at about 1.41pm on Sunday after the train hit it near Lower Road in Teynham.
Train services between Newington and Faversham are severely disrupted, and the rail operator Southeastern advised passengers to expect delays, cancellations and altered services until at least 3pm.
One person was pronounced dead at the scene, British Transport Police said.
David Davidson, the Southeastern chief operating officer, said: 'We are working with the emergency services and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch following this incident. Passengers on the train involved have been transferred onto another train and taken to Sittingbourne for onward travel.
'Trains are currently unable to run through the area, and replacement buses are currently running between Gillingham and Faversham, and Sittingbourne and Sheerness-on-Sea.
'We are working with the Rail Accident Investigation Branch to understand the cause of this incident and to work to reopen the line for customers as soon as possible.'
A Kent Police spokesman said: 'Kent Police was called at 12.43pm on Sunday to a report of a collision involving a train and a van at a level crossing in Lower Road, Teynham.
'Patrols are currently at the scene, where they are assisting officers from the British Transport Police. South East Coast Ambulance Service and Kent Fire and Rescue Service also attended.'
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