A BLS regional train derailed between Goppenstein and Hohtenn on 16 February at around 07:00, injuring five people.
According to initial findings, an avalanche may have crossed the track shortly before the train passed the location. At the time of the derailment, 29 passengers were on board.
One injured person was taken to hospital in Sion. Four others were treated at the scene and did not require hospitalisation. All passengers were evacuated, and a replacement PostBus service was established between Goppenstein and Gampel.
Emergency response involved cantonal police, fire brigades from Gampel and Visp, SBB and BLS railway services, and medical teams from the Valais emergency organisation (OCVS 144), including two ambulances, one helicopter and eight mountain rescuers. Two fire and rescue trains from BLS and SBB were also deployed.
The public prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation to determine the circumstances of the accident.
