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Passengers shocked as windows shattered after ‘massive bang’ on train between Sheerness and Sittingbourne

Train passengers have described their shock after multiple windows were shattered while they sat in a carriage.

The service running between Sheerness and Sittingbourne was suspended following the incident.

The windows along one side of the train had been shattered. Picture: Sharna Pagden
The windows along one side of the train had been shattered. Picture: Sharna Pagden

Yesterday at 4.26pm, Southeastern warned customers to expect delays.

It reported: “Because of passengers causing a disturbance on the train at Queenborough. Trains are currently unable to run between Sittingbourne and Sheerness.”

However, Sharna Pagden, who was in one of the three carriages, says it wasn’t caused by anyone on board.

She was heading back to her home in Twydall and believes the attack happened at around 4pm, just after they left Sheerness-on-Sea station.

“We all heard this massive, loud bang,” she explained. “One of the windows was hit and the impact had shattered a few others.

It had just left Sheerness-on-Sea railway station when the incident happened. Picture: Google
It had just left Sheerness-on-Sea railway station when the incident happened. Picture: Google

“Because they are double-glazed, none of the glass came inside – a guy dozing off had his head leaning against it and was pretty shocked.

“Thankfully nobody physically got hurt."

It appears as though the window had been shot at by an air gun or a catapult ball bearing as the train travelled past.

The driver stopped at Queenborough station to assess the damage.

Officers from the British Transport Police (BTP) also took statements from those who were on board.

The train then stopped at Queenborough where the damage was assessed by the driver
The train then stopped at Queenborough where the damage was assessed by the driver

The company confirmed the train would have to be taken out of service due to the damage caused.

Sharna added: “I am completely shaken up. I have anxiety and this has taken me over the edge.

“I couldn't sleep very well last night. I hardly use trains anyway, but the fact is I don't want to go near a train right now.”

A replacement bus was scheduled to run while Southeastern found another train to use from a depot.

Services did not resume until 8.33pm from Sittingbourne and 8.57pm from Sheerness.

“Officers attended and a full area search was conducted, however, no one was identified in connection.”

Southeastern would not disclose the cost of the repairs needed for the windows.

A BTP spokesman said: “We were contacted at about 4.15pm yesterday with reports a train was hit with projectiles near Queenborough railway station on the Isle of Sheppey.

“Officers attended and a full area search was conducted, however, no one was identified in connection.

“Damage was caused to windows of the train. One person was injured but they did not require medical attention.

“Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.”

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