Train traffic - 19-year-old climbs onto train carriage and suffers electric shock
A 19-year-old man climbed onto a train carriage in Munich, was struck by an electric shock and severely injured. According to the Federal Police, the young man sustained second-degree burns on 70 percent of his body.
Together with another 19-year-old, the man had climbed onto an idle freight wagon in the Munich district of Trudering during the night on Sunday. He reportedly came into contact with the overhead power line, suffered an electric shock, and lost consciousness.
His companion jumps down from the wagon
His companion jumped off the wagon immediately. Upon noticing that the 19-year-old was unresponsive, the companion climbed back onto the wagon and revived him, according to statements. A police patrol from the Munich Police Headquarters was nearby at the accident scene. Due to the danger posed by the previously unswitched-off and grounded railway power line, the officers could not approach the two men.
After the tracks were blocked, the power was cut off, and the wire was grounded, the rescue operation began with a ladder. An ambulance took the 19-year-old with severe injuries to a hospital. The companion was admitted to the hospital for observation with only minor burns.
Federal Police investigate - Delays in train traffic
Initially, it was unclear why the two men had climbed onto the carriage. The Federal Police Munich took over the investigation. After the rescue efforts were completed, a Federal Police helicopter flew over the area to ensure that no one else was on the tracks. According to the Federal Police, there were delays in train traffic and a rerouting of trains.
The Federal Police warn of the dangers in the railroad area. According to the statement, a lightning arc can jump from the 15,000-volt power line, even without direct contact. Both in the railroad area and on the wagons, there is a risk to life.
- Despite the incident causing delays in train traffic in Upper Bavaria, the train service in Munich resumed after the necessary safety measures were taken.
- The local authorities in Bavaria strongly advise against trespassing on railroad tracks or attempting to climb onto train carriages due to the high risk of an electric shock.
- On the day of the incident, the weather in Munich was clear, and there were no reports of lightening, indicating that the young man was likely not affected by a lightning arc but came into contact with the overhead power line directly.
- The incident has raised concerns among residents of Munich about the safety measures in place around train carriages and railroad tracks, with many calling for increased awareness campaigns and warning signs.
- German authorities have been investigating incidents of train trespassing and potential dangers surrounding train tracks in recent years, with some areas reportedly lacking proper fencing and warning signs.
- As the police investigation continues, it has been revealed that the 19-year-old man and his companion were both from the Munich area and had no history of criminal activity or trespassing charges before the incident.
