1 killed as freight train plunges from bridge in Germany after crash

One person died after two freight trains collided on a bridge in Munich overnight, causing loaded cars to plunge to the road below, police said on Saturday.

Two cars of one train fell about 5 metres (16 ft) from a bridge and came to rest at round 1.40am, according to a spokeswoman.

It was unclear what caused the collision on the bridge, which caused one of the trains to derail. The nature of the cargo was initially unclear, however police stated it was not hazardous material and that there was no danger to the public.

“That two trains collided and fell off a bridge – unbelievable,” a fire brigade spokesman said as emergency crews worked at the site.

It was unclear when the train cars would be recovered and the area may remain closed until Sunday.

The accident occurred on a line used exclusively by freight trains, a spokeswoman for rail operator Deutsche Bahn said. There are no disruptions to regional or long-distance services.