Near the village of Ufton Nervet, an express train tragically collided with a stationary car on the railway tracks. The situation escalated when the car, occupied by its driver, became lodged on the tracks at the level crossing. At about 7:27 PM, the high-speed train, traveling from Paddington to Exeter, was unable to stop in time. This resulted in a horrifying impact that ultimately led to the loss of seven lives and left around 150 people injured, some seriously. Emergency services responded quickly, with ambulances and fire crews attending to the victims. The site of the collision was cleared, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident commenced promptly after.

In the wake of the incident, significant attention focused on railway safety protocols, particularly regarding level crossings where cars often become stuck. Authorities began reviewing safety measures put in place at level crossings, the adequacy of warning signals, and potential improvements in infrastructure to prevent similar accidents in the future. Community members and safety advocates voiced their concerns over the safety of railways, prompting discussions concerning operational procedures and public awareness regarding rail crossing safety. The aftermath also raised critical questions about the responsibilities of both motorists and rail companies in ensuring safety at these crossings.