A major investigation has been launched after a fatal collision involving a single-decker bus and a silver Mercedes left three people dead. The tragic incident occurred just before midnight on Monday, March 31, near HM Prison Feltham on Bedfont Road.

Emergency services, including police officers, paramedics, and firefighters from the London Fire Brigade, rushed to the scene following reports that a silver Mercedes had collided head-on with the bus, bursting into flames upon impact.

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Despite the best efforts of responding crews, three occupants of the Mercedes were declared dead at the scene.

Witnesses described the horrifying moment the car turned into a “fireball” after ploughing into the front of the bus. Fire crews worked rapidly to extinguish the blaze, but the severity of the crash left little chance for survival.

The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the Catford and Chadwell Heath Serious Collision Investigation Unit has taken charge of the inquiry.

Specialist Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) officers have been called in to assist collision investigators in identifying the deceased individuals.

A police source said, “We are actively investigating the circumstances leading up to this tragic incident. We believe the silver Mercedes may have been exceeding the speed limit before the collision, and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage to come forward.”

The road remains closed in both directions while forensic investigators continue to work at the scene.

The closure, affecting Bedford Road near the prison, is expected to last well into the morning, with buses serving the area put on local diversion.

Authorities are also appealing for any prior sightings of the silver Mercedes in the moments before the crash. They are particularly interested in any information that could help establish the vehicle’s speed and movements leading up to the incident.

The London Ambulance Service and the Metropolitan Police Press Office have been contacted for further statements, but no additional details have been released at this time.

Residents in the area have expressed their shock and sadness at the tragic event, describing the scene as “devastating.” Local authorities are working to support the families of the victims and ensure the safety of the area during the investigation.