Overcrowded Train Stranded Near Dortmund, Prompting Emergency Response
DORTMUND, GERMANY – A technical failure brought a regional train to a standstill near Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park on Saturday, triggering panic among passengers and a response from emergency services. The incident, which occurred shortly after departure, left the train packed with travelers unable to continue their journey.
The disruption stemmed from severe overcrowding combined with the mechanical issue, leading some passengers to independently open train doors out of anxiety. Authorities confirmed one person sustained minor injuries and was transported to a hospital, while an 11-year-old traveling alone was placed under police care. The incident highlights the challenges of maintaining reliable rail service during periods of high demand and underscores the importance of passenger safety protocols.
According to a spokesperson for the Federal Police, the train was exceptionally full when it stopped due to the unforeseen technical defect.”The train was overcrowded and came to a stop due to a technical fault,” the spokesperson stated.Initial attempts to restart the train proved unsuccessful.
As conditions inside the train became increasingly claustrophobic, multiple passengers contacted emergency services. Firefighters and paramedics were dispatched to the scene,securing the track bed and assisting in the evacuation of the regional train.
Following the evacuation and repairs, the train was able to resume its journey toward Soest from Dortmund. Authorities are investigating the cause of the technical failure.