A regional passenger train derailed in southern Germany on Monday, resulting in the deaths of at least three individuals and leaving several others seriously injured.
The train, carrying approximately 100 passengers, was traveling from Sigmaringen to Ulm when it derailed in a forested area near Riedlingen at around 6:10 pm local time.
Authorities have confirmed that at least two carriages left the tracks.
Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the derailment, with officials considering the possibility of rain as a contributing factor.
Storms had passed through the area prior to the incident.
German media reports suggest that a landslide might have triggered the crash, but authorities have not confirmed this theory.
Federal and local police are working together to investigate the incident.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with helicopters airlifting the injured to nearby hospitals.
Emergency doctors from local hospitals have been alerted to provide assistance.
Deutsche Bahn, Germany’s national rail operator, has expressed condolences to the victims’ families and pledged support to the authorities in their investigation.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has also extended his condolences, stating that he is in close contact with the interior and transport ministers to ensure the emergency services receive the necessary support.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of Germany’s rail infrastructure, with passengers frequently criticizing the outdated system and reporting frequent delays and technical issues.