A train collision in Slovakia has left dozens of passengers injured, with eleven requiring hospitalisation, after one train reportedly disregarded a red light and crashed into the rear of another. The incident, described as extraordinary by railway officials, occurred on Sunday evening near Pezinok, within the Bratislava region. Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok confirmed that while many sustained minor injuries, no fatalities were reported at the scene.
Investigation Underway: Red Light Violation Suspected
Authorities are actively investigating the precise circumstances surrounding the crash, which took place around 7:30 PM. Preliminary reports indicate that one of the trains failed to stop at a red signal, leading to it striking the train ahead. Police officials clarified on social media that there was no head-on collision or train derailment. The Slovak railway service head, Ivan Bednarok, stated, "One of the trains was in a place it shouldnβt have been. I wonβt speculate before the investigation is complete, but it clearly ran a red signal, leaving a stop where it shouldnβt have, and the second express train collided with it from behind at an estimated speed of over 100 km/h." Approximately 800 individuals were on board the affected trains, many of whom were students returning from their weekend travels.
Passenger Accounts and Emergency Response
Eyewitness accounts describe a sudden and forceful impact. One passenger, traveling from Piestany to Bratislava, recounted being "thrown forward when the train stopped." They added that a mounted table prevented them from a more severe impact. Following the collision, an urgent call was made over the train's intercom system, requesting any medical professionals on board to assist passengers in the first carriage, where several were in a "pretty bad condition." Emergency medical teams and police swiftly arrived at the scene to provide aid and manage the situation.
Safety Concerns After Recent Incidents
Both train drivers underwent immediate testing for drugs and alcohol, with results confirming they were negative. Prime Minister Robert Fico issued a statement urging the public to prioritize support for the injured and refrain from spreading unverified information or negativity. This incident marks the second significant train crash in Slovakia within a month, raising concerns about railway safety in the country. Just weeks prior, on October 13, another collision in eastern Slovakia injured 91 people.
Image Captions
The aftermath of the train collision near Pezinok, Slovakia.
First responders assisting passengers after the railway accident.