In a harrowing incident on Sunday evening, a passenger train traveling on a 90 km route between Sigmaringen and Ulm derailed due to an overflowing sewage system, which authorities believe was exacerbated by severe rainfall in the region. The overflow led to a landslide that ultimately resulted in the train's crash near Riedlingen and Munderkingen. Sadly, three individuals—two train employees and one passenger—lost their lives, with a reported 41 others sustaining injuries.
German Chancellor Freidrich Merz expressed his condolences on social media, sharing his support for the victims' families and coordinating with transport and interior ministers to ensure that emergency services receive necessary aid. Images from the scene depict at least two carriages toppled on their sides amid heavy emergency service activity to rescue trapped passengers.
Ulm police have stated that the site of the derailment will remain closed for investigation, and rail traffic in the area has been suspended while clean-up operations commence on Monday. Deutsche Bahn, the train operator, issued a statement expressing sorrow for the victims and offering support for those affected by the incident amidst ongoing investigations into the precise causes of the derailment.
