Tragic Train Derailment in Germany Claims Three Lives

A passenger train derailed in south-west Germany due to an overflowing sewage shaft, leading to three deaths and 41 injuries. The incident occurred following heavy rains, prompting a landslide that affected the railway tracks. German Chancellor Freidrich Merz expressed condolences as investigations into the crash continue.

Three people tragically lost their lives and many others sustained serious injuries following a train derailment in south-west Germany, local authorities reported. The accident occurred on Sunday between Riedlingen and Munderkingen, close to Stuttgart, attributed to overflowing sewage caused by heavy rainfall in the region.

The train was derailing was reportedly triggered by a landslide resulting from the sewage overflow, affecting the banks alongside the tracks. Among the deceased were the train driver, a rail employee, and a passenger. In total, 41 individuals have been reported injured as emergency services responded to the incident.

German Chancellor Freidrich Merz publicly mourned the victims, offering his condolences on X, while assuring that he was liaising with interior and transport ministers to ensure needed support for emergency services. According to Ulm police, the train was on a 90 km (55 mile) journey between Sigmaringen and Ulm when it derailed around 18:10 local time.

The area remains cordoned off as investigations into the underlying causes proceed, and rail services are currently suspended. Clean-up operations are expected to commence on Monday. Reports from German news agency dpa indicated that nearly 100 passengers were aboard the train when the incident occurred, with images revealing overturned carriages and significant emergency presence as responders worked to free those trapped.

Deutsche Bahn, the train's operator, expressed their thoughts and sympathies for the victims and the traumatic experience encountered by all involved.