February 11, 2026, 10:27February 11, 2026, 17:14
A family grieving after the New Year’s Eve tragedy in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, received an unexpected financial penalty while traveling to see their injured loved one. The family was fined by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) for riding a train without valid tickets.
A fine issued by SBB is drawing criticism.Image: keystone
The father and sister were traveling to Germany on January 13 to visit their daughter, who was seriously injured in the New Year’s Eve fire and remains hospitalized in intensive care. Near Basel, their car broke down, prompting them to take the train despite not having tickets, according to RTL.
When a ticket inspector came aboard, the family explained their situation. Despite this, they were issued a fine of 121 Swiss francs for the missing tickets. The family subsequently appealed to SBB’s legal department, which rejected their request but offered a 40-franc reduction.
The family’s lawyer has expressed outrage at the lack of compassion. According to RTL, Christophe de Galembert stated that SBB had demonstrated “a lack of empathy in the face of the terrible tragedy that has struck them.” He is now requesting not only a waiver of the fine but also the issuance of travel vouchers for the family until their daughter is discharged from the hospital.
SBB Explains Its Decision
SBB requires a valid ticket at the start of any journey. The company states on its website that while there is some room for leniency, the final decision rests with the individual transportation provider.
SBB told watson that the tragedy in Crans-Montana deeply affects the entire industry. “Our thoughts are with the victims, their families and friends,” said media spokesperson Sabrina Schellenberg.
She added that they understand the desire for support in such situations, but “for reasons of equal treatment towards other customers affected by other tragic events, the public transport sector cannot assume such individual costs.” Regarding the amount of the fine, Schellenberg said it is related to how often a surcharge has been received for traveling without a valid ticket. The 40-franc reduction was granted as a gesture of goodwill. (dab)
