The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) and the NSW Office of Transport Safety Investigations (OTSI) have launched an investigation into the train crash incident at Richmond Station in Sydney’s north-east last week, which left at least 16 people injured.
The train, one of Sydney Trains’ new Waratah models, crashed into a buffer stop at the end of a station platform when it failed to come to a halt shortly before 10am on Monday 22 January.
A number of injured passengers were treated at the scene, while several others were taken to hospital. The injuries reportedly consisted of cuts, bruises and broken bones, and none were considered life-threatening.
According to the ABC, initial reports had suggested that the train derailed prior to the crash, but Sydney Trains CEO Howard Collins has since stated that it had remained on its rails.
The investigation is being led by the OTSI, with the ATSB providing technical and analytical support under the provisions of the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003.
During the investigations, investigators will attend the accident site at Richmond Station, conduct examinations of the train and the track infrastructure involved, interview the crew, and gather additional information, such as the train’s data recorder.
The final report on the accident is expected to be delivered in January 2019.
Sydney Trains is reportedly carrying out its own internal inquiry into the incident.