A catastrophic collision between a passenger train and a freight train in central Croatia left three people dead and at least 11 injured Friday night—an emergency still unfolding as authorities warn the death toll could rise.
The crash occurred near the town of Novska, close to the Bosnian border, prompting an immediate national response. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković rushed to the scene alongside top government officials, confirming the fatalities and cautioning that rescuers may uncover additional victims as the morning progresses.
Hospital officials report that the injured passengers are not currently in life-threatening condition. Emergency teams worked through the night to evacuate survivors from the mangled rail cars.
Authorities have not yet determined what caused the collision, but a full investigation is already underway. The violent impact between the two trains suggests a possible signal failure or operational error—scenarios investigators are now scrutinizing.
The tragedy marks one of Croatia’s most serious railway accidents in recent years, sending shockwaves across the region and raising urgent questions about rail safety standards.