Government

Six people killed in Glasgow bin lorry crash

By Annie Kane | 23 December 2014 | Add a Comment

An ‘out of control’ bin lorry has killed six people and injured 10 other in Glasgow, in what has been declared as a ‘major incident’.

At around 2.30pm yesterday (22 December), a Glasgow City Council bin lorry was travelling north on Queen Street when it collided with pedestrians outside the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and on Queen Street before crashing into the Millennium Hotel on Queen Street at George Square.

As a result of the collision, one male and five females died and 10 people were taken to hospital, including the driver.  Police Scotland said that four of these people have since been discharged, however two remain in intensive care for ‘further monitoring’.

A formal identification process of the dead will be carried out later.

It is not yet known what caused the incident, however there have been some reports from eyewitnesses that the driver was ‘slumped’ over the wheel when it happened. Police Scotland has said there appeared to be nothing "sinister" about the crash.

All roads in the surrounding area are closed and people are being advised to stay away from George Square and make alternative travel arrangements. 

Number to call is 01786 289070

Police Scotland is now appealing to members of the public who have photographs, videos or any type of mobile footage of the incident to send it to the dedicated email address which is: [email protected]

Police Scotland’s Assistant Chief Constable and Local Policing Commander for the West, Wayne Mawson, said: “This is a tragic incident which has taken place at a very busy time in the centre of our city. Please be assured my officers and other members of the emergency services will do everything they can to respond to this collision. 

"We have set up a helpline for anyone who believes a friend or relative may have been involved in this incident. The number is 01786 289070.

"The safety of the people of Glasgow is our priority and the emergency services will continue to work together to establish the exact circumstances."

Anyone who has concerns that their family and friends may be involved in the incident, should contact a dedicated Police Scotland number on 01786 289070.

Speaking on behalf of the council, Councillor Gordon Matheson, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: "This is a terrible tragedy and our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, particularly the families of those who have lost their lives.

"My priority now is to do what we can to support everyone involved and to give every assistance to the police and other emergency services as they investigate this incident and care for those who are injured."

Glasgow's Lord Provost, Councillor Sadie Docherty, added: "This is shocking and upsetting. My thoughts are with the families of those affected by this terrible incident."

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and the UK’s Prime Minister David Cameron have both said that they are thinking of those involved in the incident.

A book of condolence is available for people to sign at St George's Tron Church, near Queen Street Station.

Live updates on the incident can be found on the BBC News website and via the Police Scotland twitter feed.