Life-threatening electric shock: man falls after climbing on train in Munich

Life-threatening electric shock: man falls after climbing on train in Munich

A serious accident occurred at the north marshalling yard in Munich on August 10th, which once again drew attention to the dangers surrounding railway systems. A 30-year-old from Ottobrunn, who had consumed alcohol with two companions, climbed onto a parked freight train and suffered a life-threatening electric shock. He came too close to the 15,000 volt overhead line and fell to the ground from a height of around four meters. It is suspected that the electrical flashover occurred due to the proximity to the overhead line. But whether he actually touched the overhead line remains unclear - the federal police's investigation is still ongoing. This reported on the incident, which also brought the safety situation at railway facilities into focus.

The man not only suffered severe second- to third-degree burns on 40 percent of his body surface, but also broke his collarbone. His companions, a 24-year-old from Untermenzing and a 33-year-old from Dresden, immediately provided first aid until the emergency services arrived. The injured man was immediately taken to the hospital because he went from one shock to the next after this incident. His personal belongings, such as his cell phone and glasses, also suffered significant damage in the fall.

A friendly evening turns into a nightmare

The accident happened around 4:30 a.m. on Sunday night when the three men wanted to enjoy their time partying. The unauthorized approach to the railway facilities was a dangerous mistake. The federal police warn for good reason: climbing on wagons or approaching overhead lines can have fatal consequences. The electricity can jump through the air at a distance of just 1.5 meters, according to the official statement from the Federal Police and Deutsche Bahn. This should not be underestimated, because 15,000 volts flow in these overhead cables - that is 65 times the voltage of a normal household socket.

The incidents are not only a question of caution, but also of legal responsibility. According to federal police reports, the injured man is being reported for dangerously interfering with rail traffic. This not only has personal consequences for him, but also the possibility of legal dispute. The damage to the overhead line, which was affected by the incident, is estimated at around 5,000 euros.

Entering railway facilities remains prohibited, as does flying kites, drones or model airplanes near tracks. Such activities are not only risky but can also lead to other accidents. Deutsche Bahn and the Federal Police have therefore launched the security campaign “We want you to arrive safely”. A supporting video is provided to draw attention to the dangers. As experience has shown, such accidents often end in serious or even fatal consequences. Anyone who takes action on unauthorized territory is gambling with their life.

In summary, this incident once again calls on all stakeholders to take the dangers associated with railway facilities seriously. The reporting through Rosenheim24 and South Germans illustrates how important education and prevention are in this area. Everyone should be aware of the risks and avoid such places in order not to endanger their own safety and that of others.

For more information about the dangers of high voltage in railway systems, visit the website German railways.