Collision of Trams Leaves 30 Injured in Strasbourg

On Saturday, a major tram accident in Strasbourg injured at least 30 people when two trams collided, prompting emergency services to respond swiftly. Witness accounts and ongoing investigations reveal chaotic scenes at the central station.

A serious incident unfolded at Strasbourg's central station on Saturday as two trams collided, resulting in at least 30 injuries, according to local authorities. Eyewitness videos circulating on social media portrayed alarming scenes filled with smoke and confusion as alarms echoed in the background.

Details surrounding the crash suggest a switch of tracks led to one tram colliding with another that was stationary. Reports suggest that one of the trams may have been reversing at the time of the accident. Mayor Jeanne Barseghian confirmed the collision but remarked that the cause remained unknown while urging patience as the investigation progresses.

Eyewitness Johan recounted hearing a loud impact during the event, stating, "We heard a big impact, a big bang." Another witness reported that the tram's doors were blown off in the collision. In response to the event, a substantial security perimeter was established around the station to facilitate access for emergency responders.

The Bas-Rhin region's Fire and Rescue Service has warned the public to steer clear of the area to allow emergency personnel to work effectively. Director Rene Cellier disclosed that while there were various non-fatal injuries—including trauma, scalp wounds, clavicle fractures, and knee sprains—about 100 individuals were being evaluated for minor injuries. Approximately 50 rescue vehicles and 130 firefighters were dispatched, and Cellier noted the situation could have been significantly worse.

Emmanuel Auneau, director of the CTS, which oversees public transportation in Strasbourg, assured the media that although the tram drivers emerged without physical injuries, they were understandably shaken by the incident.