A devastating train accident occurred in southern Denmark, resulting in the death of a 60-year-old woman and injuring 27 others.
The crash took place between the towns of Tinglev and Kliplev in southern Jutland, near the German border.
According to police, the train collided with a slurry tanker, which is used to transport farm waste, and derailed, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos.
The impact of the crash was severe, with one of the carriages flipping onto its side. Pictures from the scene showed passengers standing around the train tracks, some clearly shaken by the ordeal.
Police confirmed that 106 people were involved in the accident, including pupils from a school in nearby Sønderborg, the train’s intended destination.
Fortunately, none of the students or the two teachers accompanying them were seriously injured, although they were offered counseling support.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed her condolences to the relatives of the deceased and those affected by the accident.
“My thoughts go out to the relatives, the many injured and everyone who is currently affected by the accident,” she said in a statement. “I hope that everyone gets the best possible help and support.”
The country’s rail operator, DSB, has shut down services along the line until further notice, while the national rail agency, Banedanmark, confirmed that the collision occurred at a level crossing.
As rescue efforts continued, police used a crane to lift damaged carriages to ensure no more injured passengers were trapped. Of the five people seriously injured, two remained in critical condition in hospital.
The incident has raised concerns about rail safety in Denmark, and an investigation into the cause of the accident is likely to follow.
The accident has also highlighted the importance of providing support to those affected by traumatic events.
The pupils and teachers on board the train were offered counseling support, and the community has come together to offer assistance to those in need.
As the investigation into the accident begins, many questions remain unanswered, and the focus will be on determining the cause of the collision and preventing similar incidents in the future.