A tragic incident unfolded in Stuttgart on the evening of May 2, 2025, when a 42-year-old driver lost control of his Mercedes G-Klasse, plowing into a crowd at the Stadtbahn-Haltestelle Olgaeck. The horrific accident resulted in the death of a 46-year-old woman and left seven others injured, including five children.
Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene as the driver attempted to navigate a tight turn at high speed. Inan Bangus, a local food vendor who witnessed the crash, recounted, "The Mercedes driver wanted to turn quickly but couldn’t make the curve. He drove straight into the pedestrians." At least five individuals were struck by the SUV, with some reportedly thrown into the air by the impact.
According to Natalija Zuichenko, an employee at a nearby café, the incident was shocking. "I heard the engine rev up, then the Mercedes barreled into the crowd. My first thought was that the driver must be drunk!" She described how bystanders were caught off guard, with some people lying on the ground as the vehicle backed up, running over individuals a second time.
The crash occurred around 5:50 PM, and emergency services were quickly on the scene, deploying 30 vehicles and approximately 70 personnel to manage the situation. The fire department declared a mass casualty incident as they worked to assist the injured.
At Klinikum Stuttgart, medical staff were called in from their shifts to treat the victims. Dr. Stefan Möbius, a hospital spokesperson, reported that two patients were in critical condition upon arrival, while the woman who had been resuscitated at the scene later succumbed to her injuries. "One child underwent surgery by oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and the rest of the injured are being monitored for trauma and concussions," he added.
Despite the severity of the accident, the driver was released by authorities who determined there were no grounds for his detention. He is currently under investigation for negligent homicide and negligent bodily harm. His five-year-old son was in the vehicle at the time of the incident but was unharmed and has since been placed with relatives.
The Stuttgart police have opened a tip portal for witnesses to submit any photos or videos taken before the crash, emphasizing the need for material that could clarify the circumstances leading up to the incident. They are particularly interested in footage showing the G-Klasse moments before it struck the pedestrians.
The driver’s actions have raised significant concerns regarding road safety and accountability. Stuttgart’s mayor, Clemens Maier, expressed his condolences, stating, "We are shocked by this tragic traffic accident, which has resulted in the death of a 46-year-old woman. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we wish for a swift recovery for all injured."
As investigations continue, authorities are exploring the exact sequence of events. Initial reports suggest that the driver turned from a one-lane side street onto the main road, colliding with pedestrians who were likely waiting at the traffic lights. The speed at which the SUV entered the crowd remains under scrutiny.
In light of this tragic event, the Stuttgart community is grappling with the aftermath, reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of reckless driving and the need for stringent measures to protect pedestrians.
As the investigation unfolds, many are left wondering how such a horrific accident could occur in a bustling city center. The authorities are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families.
In the meantime, the local community has rallied around the victims, with many expressing their shock and support for those affected. The incident has sparked discussions about pedestrian safety and the responsibilities of drivers in urban areas.
While the immediate danger has passed, the emotional and physical scars left by this tragic event will take time to heal. The city of Stuttgart, known for its vibrant culture and bustling streets, now faces the challenge of restoring a sense of safety and security in the wake of this calamity.
