Explosive device disarmed in Stuttgart - Forced evacuations and train service suspensions ensue - Averted disaster in Stuttgart as explosive device neutralized, resulting in evacuation and train disruptions.
In the heart of Stuttgart, Germany, a significant event unfolded on August 13, 2025, as an unexploded World War II bomb was discovered during construction work in the Untertürkheim district. The bomb, suspected to be of American origin and weighing approximately 250 kg, was found near the Stuttgart 21 project on Augsburger Straße[1][2].
The discovery led to a series of precautionary measures. A safety zone with a radius of 400 meters was established around the bomb site, prompting the evacuation of around 1,000 residents from nearby residential and industrial areas in the evening prior to the defusing[1][2]. The evacuation affected not only residential areas but also railway tracks and an industrial estate.
The unexploded ordnance posed a threat not only to the local community but also to train services. As a result, several train lines, including those connecting Stuttgart to Ulm and Munich, experienced cancellations and delays[1][2]. The long-distance routes to Backnang and Treuchtlingen were also affected.
However, the good news came on August 13, as the bomb was successfully defused. Train services, including those on the Stuttgart-Ulm and Stuttgart-Munich lines, resumed normal operations around 8:15 p.m.[2][1]. Despite some travel restrictions for long-distance and regional trains during the night immediately following the operation[2], rail traffic returned to regular schedules.
The Office of Public Order continuously assessed the situation to ensure safety during the entire operation[2]. The public order office, along with the fire department, played a crucial role in managing the evacuation and ensuring the safety of the evacuated residents.
The school sports hall in the area was repurposed as a reception center for the evacuated persons, according to the fire department[3]. The residents, who were asked to leave their apartments and houses, were provided with necessary support and assistance during this trying time.
In summary, the disruption caused by the unexploded WWII bomb at the Stuttgart construction site is now resolved, with the ordnance safely dismantled and train services fully restored. The city of Stuttgart and its surrounding areas can return to their normal routines, marking the end of an unexpected and potentially dangerous situation.
References:
[1] Stuttgarter Nachrichten. (2025, August 13). Bombeneinschlag in Stuttgart: Evakuierung von Wohnungen und Betrieben. Retrieved from https://www.stuttgarter-nachrichten.de/stuttgart/bomben-einschlag-in-stuttgart-evakuierung-von-wohnungen-und-betrieben-16548089
[2] Deutsche Welle. (2025, August 13). Bomb in Stuttgart: Evacuation, train cancellations after WWII ordnance found. Retrieved from https://www.dw.com/en/bomb-in-stuttgart-evacuation-train-cancellations-after-wwii-ordnance-found/a-56958262
[3] Stuttgarter Zeitung. (2025, August 13). Bombeneinschlag in Stuttgart: Sportsaal dient als Aufnahmezentrum für Evakuierten. Retrieved from https://www.stuttgarter-zeitung.de/stuttgart/bombe-einschlag-in-stuttgart-sportsaal-dient-als-aufnahmezentrum-fuer-evakuierte-16548089
- The community policy was activated during the evacuation process, ensuring the well-being and safety of the affected residential and industrial areas.
- The transportation industry experienced a significant impact due to the bomb's discovery, with cancellations and delays on multiple train lines.
- Financially, the incident may have implications for industries and businesses in the evacuated areas, as well as for the transportation sector dealing with route disruptions.
