1-9-2023 (ROME) In a devastating incident, an out-of-service train traveling at high speed collided with a group of workers conducting nighttime track maintenance, resulting in the death of five individuals. The tragic crash took place shortly after midnight at a station in Brandizzo, a town located in Italy’s Piedmont region. Piedmont Governor Alberto Cirio confirmed the death toll and stated that investigations were ongoing to determine the cause of the accident.
According to reports from Brandizzo Mayor Paolo Bodoni, there are indications that the train crew was unaware of the presence of workers on the tracks. Initial findings suggest a lack of communication between the maintenance team and those responsible for signaling the train’s passage. State radio initially reported that the train was estimated to be traveling at approximately 160 kilometers per hour (100 mph). However, a preliminary investigation conducted by railway police later revised the speed estimate to around 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph), as reported by the Corriere della Sera newspaper. The train consisted of an engine car and 11 empty passenger cars that were being transported.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini acknowledged the likelihood of human error, stating, “For sure there was a human error.” Bodoni echoed this sentiment, mentioning a possible lack of communication within the work team and with those responsible for signaling the train’s approach.
Fortunately, two workers managed to avoid being struck by the train, but they were treated for shock at a local hospital. Various unions representing train maintenance workers have announced plans to stage a strike to protest the crash and honor the memory of the victims.
During his flight to Mongolia, Pope Francis was asked about the tragic incident by Italian reporters. He expressed his condolences and referred to workplace deaths as “calamities and injustices.” The Pope emphasized the importance of care in preventing such tragedies and stated, “Workers are sacred.”
