Multiple people have been injured after a double decker bus carrying students crashed through railings into the River Itchen in Hampshire.
Police say five people, including the bus driver, were taken to hospital for treatment with two of them in a serious but not life-threatening condition.
Around 14 people, with less serious injuries, were treated at the scene in Bishopstoke Road in Eastleigh.
It’s understood 19 passengers were on-board the Bluestar bus at the time.
A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: “We are currently dealing with an incident on Bishopstoke Road in Eastleigh, after College Bus 607 for Barton Peveril students left the carriageway into a river.
“Emergency services are in attendance and the road has been closed so please avoid the area.
“It is anticipated the road may be closed for up to 12 hours for investigation and recovery work.
“Everyone on the bus has been accounted for and all injured persons are being treated by the ambulance service.
“We ask that people do not attend the actual scene.
“Parents will be contacted by the College, as an Incident Centre has been established at The Hub at Bishopstoke.
“An officer and College staff will be available at the Hub to provide updates and address any questions you may have.”
The Incident Centre is located at:
The HUB, Bishopstoke Road, Eastleigh, SO50 6LA. Tel. no: 02380 647090.
A spokesperson for Barton Peveril Sixth Form College wrote on their Facebook page: “We are aware of an incident involving the College 607 Bus.
“College staff are working closely with the police to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.”
South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust sent multiple units to the incident including five ambulances, two helicopters, and specialist response units.
Richard Tyldsley, general manager of bus operator Bluestar, said: “One of our buses, carrying students to Barton Peveril College, was involved in an incident earlier today in Bishopstoke Road, Eastleigh.
“Reports suggest the bus left the highway and came to rest in a shallow river.
“There were 19 passengers on-board at the time.
“Our driver and at least two of the passengers have confirmed injuries, and we are awaiting further updates on the status of others on-board.
“We do not currently have full details of their injuries and are following their progress closely.
“Our thoughts are with everybody involved, and we wish those who were injured a full and speedy recovery.
“At this time, we do not know the circumstances behind this incident and are carrying out an immediate investigation.
“We are also assisting the police as they carry out their own enquiries.”
