Security Alert That Triggered Londonderry Train Station Evacuation Lifted After Vehicle Search Cleared

A security alert that forced the evacuation and temporary closure of Londonderry’s Waterside train station came to an end Wednesday evening after police completed a thorough search of a vehicle parked nearby, finding no threat.

The alert, which began around 4 p.m. BST, prompted a rapid public safety response. Officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and Ammunition Technical Officers examined the vehicle before deeming the site safe. The operation led to the full evacuation of the station, the closure of the lower deck of the Craigavon Bridge, and cordons on several surrounding roads.

While no dangerous items were discovered, the disruption rippled across the city, halting train services and snarling traffic during the evening commute. All roads and the station have since reopened, and train services resumed normal operation.

The PSNI acknowledged the inconvenience caused to residents and travelers, thanking the public for their patience. In a statement, a spokesperson said officers acted swiftly to protect public safety and that investigations remain ongoing, despite the all-clear.

The incident comes amid heightened vigilance in Northern Ireland, where security alerts—though often false alarms—can still trigger large-scale evacuations given the region’s history of dissident activity. Local officials have urged calm, while police continue to appeal for witnesses. Anyone who noticed suspicious activity near the station on Tuesday or earlier this week is asked to come forward.