A serious traffic accident in Munich’s Ludwigsvorstadt district left two police officers injured and caused tens of thousands of euros in property damage on Sunday morning.
According to police reports, a Dutch taxi driver collided with a patrol car during an ongoing emergency operation, sending both vehicles crashing into nearby structures — including the glass façade of a hotel near Munich’s main train station.
What happened on Paul-Heyse-Straße
Around 5 a.m., a BMW patrol car was heading toward the city center with flashing lights and sirens on Paul-Heyse-Straße. In front of the police vehicle was the taxi driven by a 46-year-old Dutch national.
At the intersection with Schwanthalerstraße, the officer activated his indicator to overtake the taxi on the left. At that exact moment, the taxi driver also turned left — even though the maneuver is prohibited at that junction.
“The intersection only allows vehicles to continue straight or turn right,” the Munich Police Department later confirmed.
Vehicles thrown across the intersection
The two vehicles collided violently and were hurled to the side. The taxi crashed directly into the corner of the Relexa Hotel, shattering large glass windows and twisting parts of the metal frame.
The police car slammed into a nearby traffic-light control box, completely destroying it. The traffic light itself was also damaged in the impact.
Injuries and estimated damage
Both officers, aged 27 and 28, sustained minor injuries and were transported to a hospital for treatment. The Dutch driver reportedly escaped unharmed.
Initial estimates put the total damage at up to €100,000, according to police. The Munich traffic investigation unit has taken over the case.
A reminder of the risks during emergency responses
Incidents like this highlight the dangers police officers face even when responding to emergencies with sirens and blue lights. The authorities have reminded drivers to remain alert and to yield properly when emergency vehicles approach — especially in the dense traffic around Munich’s main station.
