BAVARIA — A peaceful train ride turned into chaos Thursday afternoon when a man launched a sudden axe attack aboard a high-speed ICE train traveling from Germany toward Vienna. The incident occurred between the towns of Straubing and Plattling in Lower Bavaria, roughly 65 kilometers from the Austrian border, reported by German Media.
According to Bavarian police, four passengers sustained minor injuries during the rampage. The suspect, reportedly armed with both an axe and a hammer, was subdued and arrested by officers who swiftly boarded the train following emergency calls. The man’s identity has not yet been officially confirmed, but local media, including Bild, report he is believed to be a Syrian national.
The train, ICE 91, was en route to Vienna when the assault began. Witnesses described scenes of panic as passengers scrambled for safety. Some pulled the emergency brake, forcing the train to a stop on open tracks. Around 500 passengers were on board at the time.
Remarkably, one courageous traveler is said to have confronted the attacker, helping to prevent further injuries until law enforcement arrived. Authorities have praised the individual’s bravery, crediting their actions with saving lives.
Police and emergency services from the Straubing-Bogen district responded in force, providing medical attention and securing the scene. Bomb squads and investigators also boarded the train as a precaution, though no further threats were found.
Officials have not yet commented on the suspect’s motives, and investigations are ongoing. As of now, the attacker remains in custody, and no life-threatening injuries have been reported.
Thursday’s events have rattled passengers and raised questions about rail security. While the swift police response prevented greater tragedy, the attack stands as a chilling reminder of the vulnerability of public spaces — even at 180 miles per hour.
