Here is the full police statement:
A spokesperson for Police Valais said:
“On Monday, February 16, 2026, a train operated by BLS AG derailed on the line connecting Goppenstein to Hohtenn. According to the current information, five people were injured in the accident.
“At around 7am on Monday morning, a BLS regional train traveling from Goppenstein toward Hohtenn derailed at the exit of the “Stockgalerie.” According to initial findings, an avalanche may have crossed the railway line shortly before the train passed.
“At the time of the incident, 29 people were on board. Based on the latest information, five people were injured. One of them was transported to the hospital in Sion.
“The other four were treated at the scene by emergency services and did not require hospitalization. All passengers were safely evacuated.
“A replacement postal bus service was set up between Goppenstein and Gampel to allow them to continue their journey.
“The cantonal police were supported by the fire brigades of Gampel and Visp, as well as by personnel from Swiss Federal Railways and the Lötschberg railway.
“Medical resources deployed by the Valais Cantonal Emergency Organization (OCVS 144) included two ambulances, one helicopter, and eight mountain rescuers. Two firefighting and rescue trains from BLS and the Swiss Federal Railways were also mobilized.
“The Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the accident.”