Two serious train accidents unfolded within hours of each other on Wednesday morning in Bern, Switzerland, leaving two men severely injured. The incidents have gathered significant attention, prompting investigations by local authorities and disruptions to train services.
The first accident occurred shortly after midnight at a railway crossing in Interlaken. A man, identified by police, attempted to cross the tracks at closed barriers, leading to him being struck by a train traveling from the direction of Interlaken West. Despite the train's immediate emergency braking, it was unable to prevent the collision. Local emergency services transported the severely injured victim to the hospital.
According to reports from the Kantonspolizei Bern, "Der Schwerverletzte wurde mit einer Ambulanz ins Spital transportiert" (The seriously injured man was transported to the hospital by ambulance). The police investigations are underway to ascertain the exact circumstances surrounding the accident, with officials emphasizing the importance of safety at rail crossings.
Following this incident, at approximately 7:30 AM, another man was hit by a train at the Frinvillier-Taubenloch train station. Witnesses reported seeing the individual fall onto the tracks under unclear circumstances, and like the first case, the train was unable to stop in time.
The police noted, "Die Berner Kantonspolizei hat eine Untersuchung zur Aufklärung der Umstände und des Unfallhergangs eingeleitet" (The Bernese cantonal police have launched an investigation to clarify the circumstances and events of the accident). Emergency responders once again mobilized quickly, and the man was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries.
Both accidents have raised concerns about railway safety, especially during the holiday season when train travel typically increases. Following the incidents, significant delays and disruptions occurred along the train lines, as operations between Interlaken West and Interlaken Ost were halted for several hours. Passengers were transported by replacement buses during this time.
Authorities are stressing the need for caution around train tracks and are encouraging travelers to adhere to safety signals and signage, particularly during busy travel periods such as Christmas.
Further details about the investigations are expected as local police strive to piece together the events leading up to both accidents. With safety being the utmost priority, any findings from these inquiries will likely lead to recommendations aimed at enhancing safety measures at crossings throughout the region.
The series of accidents serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance required when traversing train tracks and the potential dangers presented by railway travel.
