A critical incident unfolded in Wimbledon this morning as a bus burst into flames, prompting a swift response from emergency services and the declaration of a critical incident by the police. The electric vehicle fire, which occurred after 7 am, sent clouds of thick smoke and flames billowing into the air, leaving residents startled and the busy Wimbledon Hill Road partially blocked.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident began with a loud bang that jolted nearby residents from their early morning routines. Max Pashley, a local resident, described the terrifying moment, saying, “We heard a huge bang.
The bus, engulfed in flames and emitting plumes of smoke, was a dramatic sight as firefighters and police officers quickly arrived at the scene. A police cordon was established to secure the area, and the road was partially blocked in both directions to ensure public safety.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed the situation, stating, “Police were called at 7.23am on Thursday, January 11, to reports of a bus on fire at Wimbledon Hill/Alwyne Road, SW19. Officers, London Fire Brigade [LFB] attended. At the scene, a bus had caught fire. Road closures and cordons are in place. We expect them to remain for some time. There were no reported injuries.”
Despite the dramatic nature of the incident, there have been no reported injuries, providing a small silver lining in the midst of the chaos. Emergency services are diligently managing the situation, and authorities are urging the local community to remain patient and cooperative while the incident is being addressed.
Motorists and pedestrians are advised to avoid the affected area if possible to facilitate the work of emergency services and ensure the safety of all involved. The incident continues to develop, and updates will be provided as they become available.
