MOSCOW – A devastating bridge collapse in Russia’s Bryansk region killed at least seven people and injured 69 others after a train derailed beneath the fallen structure, officials confirmed on Sunday. The incident took place near the Ukrainian border, raising immediate questions over its cause.
The passenger train was traveling through the Vygonichsky District when a section of a road bridge suddenly gave way, sending debris crashing onto the railway tracks. Authorities say the locomotive driver is among the deceased. Russian emergency services rushed to the scene, where over 180 rescue workers worked overnight to pull victims from the wreckage.
Initially, Russia’s Railways claimed the collapse was due to “illegal interference in the operation of transport,” hinting at possible sabotage. However, that statement was later deleted, and no official explanation has been provided so far. The region’s governor, Alexander Bogomaz, confirmed that 44 of the injured were hospitalized, including three children—one in serious condition.
Social media footage captured the dramatic aftermath, showing passengers helping each other escape mangled train cars under the cover of darkness. Firefighters and emergency crews could be seen navigating twisted metal and rubble as they searched for survivors.
Although Russian authorities have not named suspects, past attacks on infrastructure have been blamed on pro-Ukrainian saboteurs. These claims, however, remain unverified. Meanwhile, tensions continue to mount between Moscow and Kyiv as diplomatic efforts remain fragile. Russia has invited Ukraine to attend fresh peace talks in Istanbul next week, but Ukraine has yet to respond.
U.S. President Donald Trump has called on both sides to resume dialogue, while American lawmakers are threatening further sanctions against Moscow if conflict escalates. As the investigation into the Bryansk tragedy unfolds, officials stress that rescue and recovery efforts will remain the top priority in the coming days.