Two dead, eight injured in accident at WWII event in South Bohemia

Two people died and eight were injured during a military vehicle demonstration near Horní Dvořiště, when an armored vehicle overturned on an icy bridge.

Expats.cz Staff ČTK

Written by Expats.cz StaffČTK Published on 19.01.2025 10:00:00 (updated on 19.01.2025) Reading time: 2 minutes

Two people died and eight were injured during a private showcase of World War II military equipment near Horní Dvořiště, close to the Austrian border in Czechia's South Bohemian Region, on Saturday afternoon.

The accident occurred when a half-track armored vehicle lost control on a slippery bridge and overturned into a stream. Emergency responders were called to the scene, but despite their efforts, two men could not be saved.

The event, organized by a local historical military association, took place in the area of the now-abandoned village of Svatomírov. According to officials, icy road conditions contributed to the accident.

"The accident happened while crossing a bridge over a stream," police spokesperson Milan Bajcura told Czech News Agency. "The half-track armored vehicle likely skidded on the icy surface and overturned onto its right side."

Nine people were trapped under the overturned vehicle, while witnesses attempted to resuscitate one man outside the vehicle. Emergency services, including four ground ambulances, two rescue helicopters, and multiple fire brigades, rushed to the scene.

"Despite the extraordinary efforts of all involved, two men could not be saved and were pronounced dead at the scene," said South Bohemian paramedic spokesperson Petra Kafková. "Eight others suffered hypothermia and minor injuries."

Emergency response and investigation

Local fire brigades, both professional and volunteer, played a critical role in stabilizing the situation.

"Our teams secured the site and prevented operating fluids from leaking into the environment," said Roman Krčmář, a spokesperson for the South Bohemian Fire Department. "A three-member post-trauma team was also dispatched to assist on-site."

An Austrian rescue helicopter also arrived but was later dismissed when its assistance was no longer required. All injured individuals were transported to a nearby hospital in Český Krumlov for further care.

The event was described as a private gathering hosted by the Historical Military Association of Horní Dvořiště. Local authorities are investigating whether proper safety measures were in place.

Zdeněk Kemény, the mayor of Horní Dvořiště, confirmed that he was informed of the accident shortly after it happened but declined to comment further.

Did you like this article?

Would you like us to write your article? Explore the options