Garmisch train crash: acquittal despite five deaths
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The court acquitted both defendants.
A German court has acquitted two railway employees in connection with the deadly train derailment near Garmisch-Partenkirchen in June 2022. Five people died and more than 70 were injured.
Prosecutors had sought suspended sentences, arguing that the employees failed to properly inspect the track. The court found that a causal breach of duty could not be proven.
What the court decided
The regional court (Landgericht München II) cleared both defendants. According to the verdict, it could not be shown beyond reasonable doubt that their actions caused the accident.
What caused the crash
The derailment has been linked to defective concrete sleepers and broader weaknesses in rail infrastructure.
Why this matters
The case fuels a broader debate: if crumbling infrastructure leads to tragedy, where does responsibility sit — and what must change to prevent similar accidents?
Sources: Werra-Rundschau · t-online · Mindener Tageblatt