Germany was struck by tragedy on Sunday evening when a passenger train carrying around 100 people derailed in a forest area near Riedlingen, in Baden-Württemberg, about 158 km west of Munich. At least three people died, including the train’s driver, a rail apprentice, and a 70-year‑old passenger, according to media officials.
Media reported that 50 people were injured, with 25 of them seriously hurt. Emergency crews, including six rescue helicopters, rushed to the scene to aid victims and transport them to hospitals in Ulm and nearby cities
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Deutsche Bahn stated that two train carriages derailed “for reasons still unknown,” and train service between Sigmaringen and Ulm has been suspended over a 40 km stretch while investigations are underway
According to media reports, authorities are investigating whether severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in the area before the accident played a role in the derailment. Interior Minister Thomas Strobl suggested that a landslide, possibly caused by the heavy rain and an overflowing sewage shaft, might have led to the crash.
This tragic incident highlights growing concerns over weather-related rail safety in the region. Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Deutsche Bahn CEO Richard Lutz have expressed their condolences and pledged full support as recovery efforts are underway.