Tram derails in central Milan, killing 2 people and injuring dozens

ROME

At least two people have been killed and about 40 others injured, after a crowded tram derailed on Friday in the northern Italian city of Milan, local authorities said.

The tram was travelling at high speed on Milan's central Vittorio Veneto street at around 1500 GMT when it apparently crashed into the side of a building, smashing a shop's window and finally stopping after hitting a tree.

According to local reports, the first victim was found beneath the tram, while most of the injured people were passengers.

"We have to wait to understand how such a serious incident could have occurred … unfortunately, according to initial reports, it has resulted in the death of one person, while another was seriously injured," said the regional welfare councilor, Guido Bertolaso. The second person died after being hospitalized in serious conditions, authorities added later Friday.

Several ambulances and fire trucks rushed to the scene of the crash.

Italy’s business capital is currently busy with its seasonal fashion shows after successfully hosting the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics and just ahead of the Paralympic Games.