A tram derailment in Milan has resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries, with officials suggesting human error may be a contributing factor.
On February 27, 2026, a tram derailment in central Milan left three people dead and over twenty others injured. The incident occurred when the Number 9 tram unexpectedly swerved at a switch track, colliding with a building. Emergency services, including dozens of ambulances and fire engines, rushed to the scene to assist the injured and transport survivors. Videos from the incident captured the tram's moment of derailing, highlighting the severity of the crash.
Milan's mayor, Beppe Sala, indicated that human error might have played a significant role in the crash, specifically suggesting that the driver failed to switch tracks correctly to maintain the tram's straight path. Despite being an experienced driver who had only started their shift an hour before the accident, it was noted that the driver had skipped a stop immediately preceding the crash, which raises questions about their decision-making and the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
This incident marks a significant transportation accident in Milan, prompting investigations into both the safety procedures in place for tram operations and potential mechanical or infrastructural faults. The loss of life and the injuries caused have initiated local discussions about the need for enhanced safety measures and training protocols for public transportation personnel to prevent future tragedies of this nature.
