A passenger train derailment and collision near Evangelismos, Greece, prompts large-scale emergency response
Authorities report that at least six people have died and many others were injured when a passenger train derailed after colliding with a freight train near Evangelismos, on the outskirts of Larisa in central Greece. The incident has drawn immediate attention from local and national authorities, with news agency TASS noting the event and linking to a local Greek channel for on-the-ground coverage.
Within moments of the crash, emergency services were mobilized in force. More than 30 ambulances were dispatched to the scene, accompanied by firefighters and other specialized response units prepared to manage a large-scale rescue operation and to stabilize the situation. The operational focus for responders has been twofold: safeguarding any survivors who may be trapped in the overturned wagons and ensuring rapid medical care for the injured as hospitals prepare to receive them.
Initial assessments indicate that the train derailed after the collision, with several cars derailing, overturning, and catching fire. Rescue teams are conducting systematic searches of the wreckage to locate passengers who might still be inside the damaged cars, and to determine the full scope of casualties. Local authorities have established a command post to coordinate the ongoing response and to facilitate the flow of information to families and the public.
In response to the emergency, the government ordered the rapid opening of hospital wards in nearby Katerini and Larisa to admit incoming patients. Health officials have moved to ensure that medical facilities are prepared for a potential surge in casualties, including triage areas and emergency surgery capabilities where needed. Health Minister Thanos Pleuris is scheduled to visit the emergency scene to assess needs and oversee the coordination of medical resources.
The incident occurred around midnight on Tuesday, when the passenger train was traveling on the Athens–Thessaloniki corridor. Reports indicate that the passenger service collided with a freight train, causing several cars to derail, overturn, and ignite. Investigators are expected to examine the signaling, track conditions, and operational procedures to determine any contributing factors and to evaluate safety measures along this key intercity route.
News coverage continues to evolve as rescuers expand their search of the wreckage, and authorities work to confirm the number of people aboard the trains and the exact nature of injuries. Local residents have been advised to avoid the area to keep streets clear for emergency vehicles, while families seek information about loved ones. The Greek railway operator has pledged full cooperation with investigators and is cooperating with national safety agencies to review existing protocols and enhance safety measures on affected lines.
Authorities emphasize that this is a rapidly developing situation. Additional updates will be provided as confirmed details emerge, including the identities of those killed and the number of people injured, as well as the status of hospital admissions and the condition of the railway infrastructure involved in the collision. Attribution: TASS via a local Greek channel.