Train Derailment in Southwestern Germany Kills Three, Injures 41 After Sewer Overflow

A train derailment in southwestern Germany near Riedlingen resulted in three deaths, including the train driver, a rail employee, and a passenger, and injured at least 41 others after an overflowing sewage shaft triggered a landslide onto the tracks. Heavy rainfall caused the sewage shaft to overflow, which destabilized the embankment and led to the derailment of the train carrying around 100 passengers on a 90 km route between Sigmaringen and Ulm. The accident took place in a forested area around 6:10 pm local time, with emergency services responding to rescue trapped passengers amid overturned carriages and fallen trees. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed condolences on social media and confirmed close coordination with interior and transport ministers to support rescue and recovery efforts. Rail operator Deutsche Bahn extended sympathies to victims and announced that the affected railway line remains closed while investigations continue, with cleanup work scheduled to begin the following day. Authorities have found no evidence of foul play and are continuing their investigation into the incident.