Electric shock on freight wagon: 34-year-old fights for his life!

Electric shock on freight wagon: 34-year-old fights for his life!

In the early morning hours of April 20, 2025, a serious incident occurred in Vienna-Donaustadt in which a 34-year-old Slovakian was seriously injured. The man climbed onto a parked freight wagon and came into contact with the high-voltage overhead line, which resulted in serious injuries. Despite his critical condition, he managed to get away from the tracks and call for help. The residents became aware of his cries for help around 7 a.m. and alerted the emergency services, who then interrupted rail traffic to reach the injured man.

In order to save the person, it was necessary to dismantle parts of the noise barrier. After receiving emergency medical first aid, the man was transported to a hospital. His condition remains critical and his life is in danger. According to the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), around 30 accidents due to electric shocks are registered in the area of ​​railway systems every year, with young people and people under the influence of alcohol being particularly at risk.

The dangers of traction current

The incident highlights the extreme dangers posed by high-voltage power lines. These are subject to a voltage of up to 15,000 volts; Even getting close can be life-threatening. A spokesman for the Federal Police confirms the regular accidents, especially among young people, who are often injured while climbing on wagons, electricity pylons or during so-called S-Bahn surfing. Shows of courage, carelessness and taking selfies are often the main causes of these accidents.

The consequences are often dramatic: survivors of such electrical accidents often suffer severe burns and other consequential health problems. An example of such a story is that of Vanessa, who survived an electric shock after climbing onto a freight wagon and now wants to help raise awareness about the dangers of traction current. She is featured in a federal police prevention film, in which her family, the treating doctor and a prevention officer also have their say.

Prevention measures and education

In order to prevent accidents, the police, together with train operators, regularly carry out prevention campaigns such as “Safe on the train”. These campaigns aim to educate young people and their parents about the dangers of railway systems. There are also information events at train stations, in schools and youth facilities as well as via social media channels.

In addition to a main film, the media package to raise awareness also includes cinema trailers, interviews, accompanying films, leaflets, posters, presentations and teaching materials. Parents, teachers and employees in educational institutions are encouraged to actively contribute to prevention and to address the dangers of traction current. For further information, the Federal Police can be reached at Krimipraevention@polizei.bund.de.

The tragic events in Vienna make it clear that careless handling of railway systems can have fatal consequences. Education and prevention are essential to protect the lives of young people.