High speed train crash, dozens injured and several in critical condition

High-Speed Train Collision in Slovakia: Dozens Injured, Critical Cases Reported

In a tragic incident that unfolded on the morning of October 13, 2025, two high-speed trains collided head-on in the eastern Slovak town of Rožňava, leaving dozens of passengers injured and at least two in critical condition.

The crash occurred shortly after 8 a.m. local time and has prompted a swift emergency response and an official investigation into its cause.

According to Slovak Railways, approximately 80 passengers were aboard the trains at the time of the collision. The impact caused significant damage to the front of one of the trains, with images from the scene showing a mangled locomotive and a carriage that had veered off the tracks while remaining attached to the rest of the train.

Firefighters and rescue personnel were quickly dispatched to the site to assist with evacuation and medical aid.

Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok confirmed that two individuals sustained life-threatening injuries, while the remaining casualties were not considered serious. He also suggested that human error may have played a role in the crash, though the investigation is ongoing and no definitive conclusions have been reached.

Authorities are working to determine whether procedural lapses or signaling failures contributed to the accident.

The priority for Slovak Railways and emergency services has been the rescue and evacuation of passengers and staff. In a public statement, the railway company emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all those affected.

The incident has sparked concern across the country, raising questions about the safety protocols and oversight of high-speed rail operations.

This collision marks one of the most serious rail accidents in Slovakia in recent years and has drawn attention from both national and international observers.

As the investigation continues, officials are expected to release further details regarding the circumstances of the crash and any measures that will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.