France tram accident: Dozens injured after two trams collide at Strasbourg station

The accident happened when one tram switched tracks and collided with a stationary tram at Strasbourg's central station, BFM TV reported.

Police officers block the access to the station after two trams collided, injuring dozens of people, though none critically, firefighters said, Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025 in Strasbourg, eastern France. (AP Photo/Pascal Bastien)

At least 20 people were injured after two trams collided in Strasbourg, eastern France, on Saturday, though authorities confirmed that none of the injuries were critical.

The accident occurred during the afternoon in a tunnel leading to the city’s central train station. One tram switched tracks and collided with a stationary tram at Strasbourg’s central station, BFM TV reported.

Emergency services, including 130 firefighters and 50 rescue vehicles, were dispatched to the scene, and a wide safety perimeter was established to facilitate rescue operations, news agency Associated Press reported.

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René Cellier, director of the Bas-Rhin Fire and Rescue Service, stated that an additional 100 people were assessed for shock or stress, even though they were not physically injured. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency responders unrestricted access.

“Around fifty people are in a state of relative emergency, with injuries such as scalp wounds, clavicle fractures and knee sprains. But there are no critical injuries. It could have been much worse,” Cellier said.

The Bas-Rhin Fire and Rescue Service said on X: “Tram accident at the Gare Centrale stop at Strasbourg. Numerous resources mobilized. Avoid the areas of Place des Halles, Gare, Boulevard du Président Wilson and facilitate access for emergency services.”

Mayor Jeanne Barseghian visited the site of the collision and described it as a “brutal collision,” expressing her appreciation for the emergency responders. “I am at the station with the injured and rescuers. Thank you for your mobilization,” she said on X. She also urged the public not to hinder rescue efforts.

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Photos shared on social media showed two severely damaged tram cars, with one derailed in the tunnel.

Authorities launched an investigation to determine what caused the collision.

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