Govind Tekale
RIEDLINGEN, BADEN-WÜRTTEMBERG — A Deutsche Bahn passenger train derailed near Riedlingen on Sunday evening, claiming three lives and leaving dozens injured after what authorities believe was a rain-triggered landslide.
The regional service operating on the Sigmaringen–Ulm line left the tracks at approximately 18:10 CEST on July 27, 2025, when an embankment collapsed beneath the railbed. Police confirmed three fatalities: the 32-year-old train driver, a 36-year-old DB apprentice, and a 70-year-old passenger.
Authorities stated that extreme rainfall likely caused a sewage shaft to overflow, leading to a landslide that undermined the trackbed.
Emergency services deployed six air ambulances alongside ground units to evacuate the 41 injured passengers to nearby medical facilities, including Ulm University Hospital, which activated its mass casualty protocol.
According to Baden-Württemberg Interior Minister Thomas Strobl, a disaster alert was triggered at Ulm University Hospital, summoning 120 staff to treat the injured.
The German Meteorological Service (DWD) classified Sunday’s deluge as its highest rainfall intensity category for the region. The DWD has issued ongoing storm warnings for parts of Baden-Württemberg following the incident.
Traffic remains suspended across a 40-kilometre stretch as investigators and recovery crews work at the scene. Deutsche Bahn CEO Richard Lutz expressed deep shock in a statement, saying “Such pictures shake us to the core,” and pledged full cooperation with investigators.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz wrote on X: “We mourn the victims and will support rescue forces with all available means.” Baden-Württemberg Interior Minister Thomas Strobl has coordinated state emergency resources.
The derailment raises fresh concerns about Germany’s ageing rail network. Railway infrastructure across Germany has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years amid calls for modernization.
Investigators are examining how drainage infrastructure may have contributed to the track collapse.
A collection point for relatives was set up at the Daugendorf Community Centre in Riedlingen, while Deutsche Bahn has established helplines for affected passengers and families. Under standard Deutsche Bahn passenger compensation policies, affected travelers can claim refunds and compensation for the disruption.
Ravensburg prosecutors have launched an investigation into the accident. The timeline for findings has not been publicly announced, though criminal negligence charges remain possible if maintenance lapses are identified.
The extreme rainfall incident highlights ongoing concerns about transportation safety during severe weather events, with climate models predicting more frequent extreme precipitation in the future.
Passengers requiring service updates can contact Deutsche Bahn’s emergency hotline or consult the DB Navigator app for alternative transportation options.
