Tram Derailment in Milan's Financial District Leaves Two Dead and Dozens Injured
A tram has derailed and crashed into a building in the heart of Milan, resulting in two fatalities and dozens of injuries. The incident occurred on the central Vittorio Veneto avenue, a key thoroughfare in Italy's financial capital, sending shockwaves through the city.
Details of the Tragic Accident
The No. 9 tram suddenly swerved at a switch track, nearly flipping onto its side before slamming to a stop against a building. Footage from the scene shows the dramatic moment of impact, with the vehicle careening off its rails. Mayor Beppe Sala confirmed that one passenger and one pedestrian lost their lives in the crash.
Emergency services responded swiftly, with dozens of ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars arriving at the scene. Crews escorted passengers wrapped in thermal blankets away from the wreckage, while medical personnel attended to the injured.
Human Error Suspected as Primary Cause
Mayor Sala suggested that human error was to blame for the derailment. He stated that the driver had apparently failed to switch the tracks to keep the tram going straight, causing the vehicle to veer off course. The mayor described the driver as a seasoned employee who had only been on his shift for an hour at the time of the accident.
Additionally, it was reported that the driver had allegedly skipped a prior stop before the crash occurred. The driver is currently being treated for his injuries in a hospital, where he will be questioned by authorities as part of the ongoing investigation.
Investigation and City Context
ATM, the Milan public transport company, has announced that it is cooperating with prosecutors to precisely establish the cause and dynamics of the incident. The crash comes at a sensitive time for Milan, as the city winds down from hosting its seasonal fashion shows and prepares for the interim period between hosting the Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games.
This tragic event has raised concerns about public transport safety in one of Europe's busiest urban centers. The investigation will likely focus on operational procedures, track maintenance, and driver training to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The community is mourning the loss of life while authorities work to provide support to the injured and their families. As Milan continues to be a hub for international events, this accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transportation safety in densely populated urban areas.
