HEAD-ON SMASH.

Gisborne Times, Volume LXVIII, Issue 10729, 29 October 1928, Page 5

HEAD-ON SMASH.

TEHRIP.LE RAILWAY COLLISION

EXPRESSES HIT EACH OTHER WITH TERRIFIC FORCE DEATH ROLL ESTIMATED _\T SIXTY. (3nil«a Press Assn, by El. Tel. Oopyriehi Australian Press Assn.—United Service BUCHAREST, Oct, 26. The Simplon tunnel express from Bucharest, collided with another express near Slatina. The collision completely wrecked the first-mention-ed express—a sleeping car, two firstclass coaches, a luggage van and mail van. The accident was due to the faulty working of the points. Lt is stated that the death roll is over 60. it is feared that many were incinerated. 'The majority of the dead are Rumanians. There were no British passengers. The disaster occurred at 2.55 o’clock in the morning. The cause is not yet explained. The Bucharest express was on the wrong line. The driver of the Orient" express, one of the world’s most famous trains, rounded a curve at full speed, and was confronted by the other travelling at full speed towards him. Both trains rushed at each other with terrific force, the Orient’s engine boring right through the Bucharest train before crumpling up into a mass of twisted iron. Both drivers were killed.

The leading Orient coaches, including a luxurious sleeping coach, were telescoped. The noise was described akin to a maritime mine explosion, and was followed by an outburst of flames from the wreckage, which consumed the leading coach like lightning.

The majority of those killed in the irain smash were soldiers.

All tho employees, at a nearby station lied. The first appeal for help was sent by a passenger who had knowledge of Morse. Meanwhile, tho uninjured passengers heroically attempted to extricate the injured. Many peasants worked throughout the night, as it was necessary to transport the injured many ’ miles. >Some remained beside the wreckage all night long, slowly dying from injuries.

Among the dead is a Rumanian military attache at Paris.

(Received Oct. 28, 5.5 p.m.) BUCHAREST, Oct. 27

An inquiry established that the collision was due to the error of a signalman, who has disappeared.