Investigations Underway After Fatal Accident at Railway Crossing

Authorities are conducting investigations following a tragic collision between a fuel tanker and a light rail vehicle at an unguarded railway crossing in northern Baden-Württemberg. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon along Landesstraße 55 in Ubstadt-Weiher, resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including a 59-year-old train operator and two passengers.

Both the tanker, which was transporting heating oil, and the light rail vehicle were engulfed in flames after the accident, leading to extensive damage. The identification of the deceased is still ongoing, as officials have yet to confirm the identities of the two passengers.

The 49-year-old driver of the tanker sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a hospital for treatment. Initial reports indicate that there were at least ten passengers aboard the light rail vehicle, all of whom are believed to have suffered minor injuries and received on-site medical attention from emergency responders.

Investigators are focusing on gathering evidence and will be assessing whether the signaling systems at the crossing were functioning correctly at the time of the accident. Emergency services remained on site well into the night to manage the situation, and a specialized company has been contracted to remove the tanker from the scene. Recovery efforts for the light rail vehicle are expected to continue into the morning.

As a result of the incident, the railway line serving the S31 and S32 services will remain closed for several days between Zeutern and Odenheim. A replacement bus service has been established to accommodate affected passengers.

Ubstadt-Weiher, where the accident took place, is situated between Karlsruhe and Heidelberg, housing approximately 13,400 residents. The local community is in shock as they absorb the impact of this devastating event.