Gatwick Airport station was evacuated on September 29 due to severe overcrowding as rail chaos spread across the Thameslink network following two separate incidents where individuals were struck by trains. The station was completely cleared with no passengers permitted to enter until further notice, creating significant disruption for travelers attempting to access one of Britain's busiest airports.

The disruption began when emergency services were first called at 9:13 am to a person hit by a train between Luton and St Albans City, blocking all lines between these stations. Just over an hour later, a second incident occurred at 10:55 am when another person was struck between Haywards Heath and Gatwick Airport. Both incidents occurred outside London but created widespread travel chaos affecting routes in and out of the capital.

Thameslink issued a stark warning to passengers, stating 'Due to multiple incidents across the network, Thameslink services will be cancelled until further notice and we recommend not to travel.' The rail operator advised passengers on stationary trains to remain onboard unless directed by staff, assuring them that 'We know where you are and we are working to get you on the move again shortly.'

The disruption extended beyond Thameslink services, affecting multiple rail operators across southern England. Southern services between Brighton, Gatwick Airport, East Croydon and London were expected to be cancelled or severely delayed, while Gatwick Express services were suspended entirely. East Midlands Railway trains were also affected, with services unable to run between Luton and London St Pancras International, and Connect route services between Corby and London St Pancras International were similarly disrupted.

A man in his 50s remains in life-threatening condition after sustaining a serious head injury during an altercation with door staff outside licensed premises in Lurgan, County Armagh. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning around 12:55am in the William Street area of the town, according to police statements from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

Detective Inspector Handley confirmed that the man had been attempting to re-enter the licensed premises when he became aggressive toward two members of the door staff. Police reports indicate that the door staff pushed the man backward, causing him to fall and strike his head on the ground, resulting in the serious head injury that now threatens his life.

The door staff provided immediate medical treatment to the injured man before he was transported to hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Police have not released additional details about the man's identity or current medical status, focusing instead on their ongoing investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

PSNI detectives are continuing their enquiries and have appealed for witnesses or anyone with information, CCTV footage, or mobile phone recordings of the incident to come forward. The police reference number for the investigation is 75 of 19/10/25, and information can be provided through multiple channels including the PSNI website or anonymously via Crimestoppers.