A serious bus collision occurred early Monday morning in Saarbrücken, resulting in numerous injuries, including many children. According to police reports, at least 25 individuals sustained injuries, with some sources citing the number could be as high as 30. The incident involved two city buses, which collided head-on around 9:10 AM on Breslauer Straße, just near the Saarbasar shopping center.
Witness accounts and photographic evidence reveal the severity of the accident, with broken glass and vehicle debris scattered across the intersection. The force of the collision was significant, prompting immediate deployment of emergency services, including multiple ambulances, police units, and even aerial support from helicopters and drones. Police spokesperson Falk Hasenberg indicated approximately 40 people were on board the buses at the time of the crash.
Among the injured, authorities confirmed the presence of twelve kindergarten children, who were reportedly on their way to visit the new police station. The children’s ages range from three to eight years. Details surrounding their injuries have yet to be fully assessed, but reports indicate they were taken to nearby hospitals for evaluation. Reinhold Jost, the Minister of the Interior for Saarland, expressed relief at the children's condition, noting, "We have been fortunate; with regard to the children, not much harm was done." He also provided insights on the incident, stating, "A mass casualty incident occurred, involving over 30 people."
The two bus drivers were also among those injured, with one reported to have sustained severe injuries. Uwe Conradt, the mayor of Saarbrücken, conveyed his condolences, indicating, "My thoughts are with the injured and their families. I wish everyone a speedy and complete recovery." He praised the rapid response and professionalism of the emergency services present at the scene. Estimates of the material damage from the collision are approximately 600,000 euros, according to the director of Saarbahn GmbH, the city’s public transport operator.
The police have not yet disclosed the cause of the accident, which remains under investigation. Officers are examining the scene and gathering evidence to establish how two buses could collide so severely against each other, particularly with the electronic display systems reportedly failing during the crash. Police officials continue to direct the public to avoid the Breslauer Straße area, as it remains closed for the time being to facilitate the investigative process.
Onlookers reported feeling the impact of the crash, which caused alarm and prompt concern from those nearby, including individuals shopping at Saarbasar. Eyewitnesses expressed shock witnessing children involved as first responders carried injured passengers away, some clutching their belongings and others visibly distressed.
This incident adds to recent concerns over public transport safety, following another incident earlier this year involving a line bus of the Saarland Public Transport, where multiple injuries also occurred due to the driver losing control. With this latest event, officials are urged to evaluate existing protocols and safety measures to prevent such accidents from recurring.
Throughout the day, officials have been communicating with the families of the injured, providing support and updates as many await news on their loved ones' conditions. Reinhold Jost has stated, "We are also organizing support for families affected by this incident, and we will keep parents informed as much as possible."
Residents and observers of Saarbrücken remain on edge as they await clearer answers about what caused this tragic accident. Investigators are expected to review video footage and conduct interviews with bus passengers—hoping to piece together the events leading to the clash. Meanwhile, the municipality promises to reassess safety regulations surrounding public transport services to diminish future risks.
Public concern surges as the community rallies behind those impacted, bringing collective hope for their swift recovery and return to normalcy. The aftermath of the accident remains under close watch by both government officials and residents alike, determined to advocate for safety measures to protect passengers, especially the vulnerable younger community members.