Several carriages of a regional train derailed with one completely overturning near Sigmaringen in Baden-Württemberg, southwest Germany, late Tuesday afternoon. At least three people are confirmed dead—though some media report four fatalities—and over 30 injured among approximately 100 passengers. Emergency crews worked urgently at the scene, cutting through crumpled wreckage amid cries for help as they extracted trapped travelers.
German Interior Minister Thomas Strobl confirmed all passengers have been evacuated, while Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder described the situation as “devastating.” Initial investigations indicate a landslide triggered by violent thunderstorms as the likely cause. The German Press Agency (DPA) reported torrential downpours dumped 30-40mm of rain shortly before the derailment, potentially destabilizing soil near the tracks.
The train, en route from Villingen-Schwenningen to Ulm, was 45 kilometers from its final stop when the incident occurred. Local newspaper Schwäbische Zeitung detailed the locomotive veered left, hurtling five meters up an embankment before striking trees. Minister Strobl acknowledged possible weather links, stating, “Severe storms in the area mean rain and resulting landslides cannot be ruled out.”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed shock, commending first responders and offering condolences to victims’ families. Authorities report several critically injured among the 34 wounded, with no official statements yet on contributing factors. The investigation continues amid extreme weather disruptions across the region.