Six confirmed dead after collision between VIA Rail train and Ottawa bus

The number of people confirmed dead following a devastating train crash in Ottawa rose to six late Wednesday morning as officials detailed the extent of the carnage that had struck Canada's capital city.

Paramedics confirmed that five people were declared dead at the scene of the crash early Wednesday and and another died in hospital a short time later.

A total of 31 victims were rushed to hospital after a VIA Rail train collided with a double-decker city bus shortly before 9 a.m. near the intersection of Woodroffe Avenue and Fallowfield Road.

With now six people now confirmed dead, another 30 continue to be treated in hospital, as many as 11 of whom are considered to be in critical condition.

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson shared his deepest condolences at a press conference on Wednesday. He said the city is doing everything it can to support the victims and their families.

A reunification centre has been established at the Nepean Sportsplex, where loved ones are urged to gather.

All city flags have been lowered to half-staff.

Images coming from the crash scene show a double-decker bus with its nose torn entirely off. The VIA Rail train and front passenger car were left derailed a short distance from the crash site.

The early-morning crash left at least five people dead and a dozen others injured.

Officials say the crash occured in Ottawa's southwest when a Via Rail passenger train collided with a city bus.

Ottawa Fire Service officials said the casualties all came on the bus. A witness told CTV News that the bus appeared to drive through a crossing barrier.

VIA Rail said service from Ottawa to Toronto has been suspended following the crash. Service between Montreal and Ottawa will continue as usual.