Two people dead after train hits car at level crossing in Horsham

Police launch investigation into what caused vehicle to be struck

Officers at the site of the incident, which has left two people dead (LNP)

Two people have died after a car was hit by a train at a level crossing in West Sussex.

Emergency services were called to the incident at Barns Green Level crossing in Horsham at around 8.45am on Saturday morning.

British Transport Police said two people had been pronounced dead at the scene.

It is believed the two victims knew each other, although no any further details about their identities are yet to be released.

A BTP spokesman said: "Officers from BTP attended alongside colleagues from Sussex Police and paramedics however two people were sadly pronounced dead at the scene."

"Officers are now working to identify them and inform their family."

No other injuries were reported.

Many of the passengers on board the train were taken to the nearby Sumners Ponds campsite, where they were given hot drinks.

Authorities are examining the scene to establish the circumstances that led to the car being hit.

Southern Rail said all services between London and Brighton had been blocked and a replacement bus service would run for the rest of the day.

The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has been notified of the incident.