A Mazowieckie Railways train collided with a railcar crane arm at Warsaw Powiśle station on May 1, 2026, causing significant damage and placing 29 people at immediate risk.
The Incident and Investigation
The Warsaw Śródmieście Północ District Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the rail collision that occurred in the early morning hours of May 1, 2026. A train carrying 27 passengers, a driver, and a conductor struck the arm of a crane mounted on a railcar, which was positioned on an adjacent track during maintenance works.
The collision resulted in severe damage to the train’s outer shell and the detachment of parts from the crane. Prosecutor Piotr Antoni Skiba confirmed that the incident led to significant destruction of railway infrastructure and equipment.
Crane Mismanagement and Alcohol Involvement
Investigators determined that the crane operator, Grzegorz T., extended the crane arm over the active track while attempting to test its functionality. The site supervisor, Leszek Ch., failed to provide the necessary notifications regarding the occupation of the second track, where the train was authorized to pass.
Subsequent testing revealed that Grzegorz T. was intoxicated while operating the railcar, with a breathalyzer reading of 0.57 mg/dm3. Records indicate the suspect had a prior criminal conviction from November 2016 for driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
Charges and Preventative Measures
Both Grzegorz T. and Leszek Ch. face charges of intentionally causing immediate danger of a rail catastrophe, threatening the health and lives of many, as well as significant property damage. Grzegorz T. faces an additional count of operating a vehicle while intoxicated as a repeat offender.
The suspects have denied the allegations but provided detailed testimonies. The prosecutor has imposed police supervision and professional suspension on both men, while also securing their assets against property mortgages to cover damages exceeding one million PLN. The suspects face between six months and eight years in prison.