Tram Collision in Strasbourg Leaves Over 60 Injured

A serious tram accident in Strasbourg resulted in numerous injuries, prompting an emergency response and an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

 

In a shocking incident over the weekend, a collision between two trams at Strasbourg's central station has left 68 individuals injured, as reported by local authorities. The event unfolded when one tram, which had been stationary, inexplicably reversed down a slope and crashed into another tram that was also at a standstill.

Eyewitness accounts captured the pandemonium of the scene, with videos circulating on social media illustrating the chaos. Smoke was seen rising, while audible alarms added to the panic. "We heard a big impact, a big bang," recounted Johan, a witness to the tumultuous event, who shared his experience with AFP. Another observer noted the dramatic moment when tram doors were reportedly torn off during the collision.

In light of the accident, a large security perimeter was established near the station, while the Bas-Rhin region's Fire and Rescue Service took to social media platform X, urging the public to steer clear of the area to facilitate emergency access. The incident led to reports of various non-life-threatening injuries, including trauma cases, scalps wounds, broken clavicles, and knee sprains. Approximately 100 additional individuals were examined by medical staff, despite no apparent injuries.

Rene Cellier, director of the rescue team, praised the rapid deployment of around 50 emergency vehicles and 130 firefighters to the scene, emphasizing that the outcome could have been significantly more disastrous. Emmanuel Auneau, head of the transportation authority in Strasbourg, indicated that while the tram operators emerged physically unscathed, they were left in a state of shock.

As investigations proceed, authorities have confirmed that there is no indication of foul play.