A tram derailed in Milan, Italy, on February 27, 2026, resulting in at least two fatalities and nearly 40 injuries. The incident occurred around 4:00 PM local time on Viale Vittorio Veneto, where the overcrowded tram veered off its tracks and collided with a building.
Among the deceased is a 60-year-old pedestrian struck by the tram, while the other victim was a passenger. Reports indicate that several individuals were trapped under debris following the crash.
Witnesses described a sudden noise from beneath the tram before it lost control, accelerated, and crashed into the side of a nearby building. One passenger recounted, “I thought it was an earthquake. I fell to the floor along with others. It was terrifying.”
Initial investigations suggest the tram may have first hit a traffic light before smashing into a restaurant window. Local media, including La Repubblica, noted that a courier and a passerby narrowly escaped injury.
The cause of the derailment remains unclear, although some reports indicate that the tram might have exceeded the speed limit while making a turn. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed her condolences to the victims’ families and wished a swift recovery to the injured.
“I extend my deepest sympathies regarding the serious accident in Milan. My heartfelt condolences and those of the entire government go to the families of the victims. I stand in solidarity with the city of Milan and wish a prompt and complete recovery to the wounded,” Meloni stated.
Milan’s mayor, Giuseppe Sala, visited the crash site and labeled the event a “tragedy,” assuring that a thorough investigation would be conducted. He mentioned that the driver was experienced and had only been on the route for an hour, ruling out fatigue as a factor. Sala also suggested the possibility of a sudden health issue affecting the driver.
“What’s a bit strange is that there is a stop that was missed, adding another element to what happened,” Sala noted.
The transport company ATM expressed their deep shock over the incident and extended their condolences to the victims and their families.
The accident occurred during Milan Fashion Week, a time when the city sees an influx of tourists, journalists, and celebrities. According to Corriere della Sera, the trams involved are a new type of dual-ended public transport introduced just weeks prior.
A tram derailment in Milan has resulted in two fatalities and nearly 40 injuries. The incident, which occurred during Milan Fashion Week, is under investigation as authorities seek to determine the cause.
Source: BBC