Train accident in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

The independent internal investigation commissioned by DB InfraGO following the tragic train accident in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, on June 3, 2022, which left five people dead and 72 injured, has been completed. In the incident, a Regional Express train derailed between the stations of Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Farchant near Burgrain. The accident was caused by defective concrete ties. Due to chemical re-actions, the concrete ties no longer had sufficient load-bearing capacity.

The law firm Gleiss Lutz, which was retained by the Management Board of DB InfraGO AG, submitted a final report on September 1, 2025. Gleiss Lutz concluded that the train accident could have been prevented. The accident was the direct result of conduct by the local staff that violated regulations and duties. At the same time, the then DB Netz AG failed to adequately respond to the extensive information available at various levels of the organization regarding damaged concrete ties, thereby enabling the accident to occur. This includes the Management Board members who were responsible for those divisions at the time.

DB InfraGO has drawn extensive conclusions from the accident and taken action. This includes measures against any individuals who acted in breach of their duties, as well as precautions to prevent future misconduct at all levels. In addition, DB InfraGO AG will pursue claims for compensation against former Management Board members.

As part of the further remediation program, Gleiss Lutz conducted a structured analysis of the underlying systemic causes that led to the accident. In particular, this includes organizational, procedural, and cultural shortcomings. Based on this, DB InfraGO has launched a comprehensive project to address these shortcomings in a systematic and sustainable manner. The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027. In particular, it includes:

• organizational measures to strengthen the safety architecture (reporting lines, control concepts),
• further development of processes, guidelines and support systems, including knowledge management and information flow, with the aim of achieving comprehensive risk management, as well as
• cultural and awareness measures to strengthen the safety culture.

These measures are not limited to the concrete ties area, but apply across all operational areas. As part of a voluntary monitoring process, Gleiss Lutz will oversee the implementation of the remediation measures to ensure that the identified shortcomings are addressed.