Deadly Train Derailment in Germany: 3 Killed, 50 Injured After Storm Sparks Landslide

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Train Derailment in Germany

Key Points:

  • At least three people died and around 50 others were injured during a passenger train derailment near Riedlingen, Baden-Württemberg on July 27, 2025.
  • Heavy rains and a potential landslide, triggered by a storm, are suspect causes. Authorities confirm an ongoing investigation.
  • The deceased include the train driver and a Deutsche Bahn employee; 25 of the injured are in serious condition.
  • Rail service is suspended between Munderkingen and Herbertingen; emergency rescue efforts, including helicopters, are ongoing.
  • German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other officials have publicly expressed condolences and pledged full support for rescue operations.
  • The crash renews criticism of Germany’s aging rail infrastructure and frequent technical problems.

Germany: A regional passenger train carrying about 100 travelers derailed in the early evening of July 27 near Riedlingen, in the southwestern German state of Baden-Württemberg, resulting in at least three fatalities and close to 50 injuries, with 25 people in serious condition. The accident occurred at approximately 6:10pm local time as the train traveled between Sigmaringen and Ulm through a forested area.

Among the deceased were the train’s driver and a Deutsche Bahn staff member. The sudden derailment left two carriages on their sides, with dramatic images showing emergency responders climbing atop the wreckage to locate and help survivors.

Suspected Cause: Storm-Linked Landslide

Immediately before the accident, the region had experienced severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Authorities now suspect a landslide, set off by the saturated ground and possibly an overflowing sewage shaft, as the probable cause of the derailment. Investigators stress that the precise cause is still under review, but foul play has been ruled out at this stage.

According to meteorological data, 30–40 liters of rain per square meter fell within a short span during the evening, contributing to highly unstable track conditions.

Urgent Rescue Operations

Rescue teams including local fire brigades, police, medical staff, and at least four helicopters rushed to the site. The Ulm University Hospital declared a disaster alert due to the influx of wounded. All passengers have been accounted for as of the latest updates, and a special emergency hotline was established by Deutsche Bahn to assist relatives and those affected.

Official Response and National Outcry

Chancellor Friedrich Merz voiced his condolences on social media, stating he is in regular contact with the Interior and Transport Ministers to ensure emergency services receive “all necessary support”. Interior Minister Thomas Strobl visited the crash site and echoed the call for comprehensive support to responders.

The incident temporarily halted rail service across a 40-kilometer section and heightened public frustration over Germany’s old and problematic rail infrastructure an issue that has elicited growing criticism and government pledges of investment.

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