A train derailed on Wednesday morning in northeast Scotland, killing three people, including the train driver, police said.
“My deepest condolences are with the loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident,” Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon wrote on Twitter.
British Transport Police were called to the line in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, at 09.43 a.m. (0843 GMT) on Wednesday morning following a report that a train travelling from Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street had derailed.
“While formal identification is yet to take place, the driver of the train is very sadly believed to have died. His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.”
“Six people have been taken to hospital to be treated for injuries, which thankfully are not believed to be serious,” said the police.
Dark smoke was seen billowing from a woodland area at the bottom of a narrow valley near Stonehaven.
Over 30 emergency vehicles, including an air ambulance, were at the scene, BBC Scotland reported.
“I have just been updated by Network Rail and the emergency services on the ongoing operation,” said Sturgeon. “My thanks go to them, and my thoughts remain with everyone affected.”
Earlier, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was saddened to learn of the “very serious incident” in Aberdeenshire and his thoughts were with all those affected.