Milan tram derailment: Experts cite medical emergency rather than negligence

Medical and legal experts have released a report regarding the tram derailment in Milan involving a Tramlink model on line 9. The report, prepared by doctors Andrea Alfonso Finzi and Massimo Levratti, concludes that the driver, Pietro Montemurro, did not act with negligence or imprudence.

According to the 19-page document, the loss of consciousness was caused with a “very high degree of probability, close to certainty” by a mixed vasovagal syndrome. The experts stated the fainting was not due to a pre-existing condition but was triggered by a combination of factors: a stressful dental procedure performed that morning, prolonged fasting, general malaise, and trauma to a laceration received shortly after starting the shift.

The report describes the syncopal event as an “acute, unpredictable in the circumstances, and non-preventable event for the subject.” The findings suggest the driver was physically and mentally unable to avoid the impact or react to the loss of vehicle control. This expert opinion is part of the ongoing investigation by the Milan Prosecutor's Office to determine individual responsibilities and potential technical causes behind the accident on Viale Vittorio Veneto.