A tram derailed and crashed into a building in Milan, Italy, killing at least two people and injuring up to 40 others.

The incident occurred around 16:00 local time on Viale Vittorio Veneto, with the crowded tram on line 9 leaving the tracks. One victim, a 60-year-old man, is believed to have been a pedestrian.

Numerous ambulances responded to the scene. Passengers reported hearing a noise under the tram before it veered off, accelerated, and struck a building.

"I thought it was an earthquake," one passenger told Ansa news agency.

The cause remains unclear, though media reports suggest the tram may have taken a sharp turn too quickly. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered condolences.

Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala visited the site, calling it a "tragedy" and noting the driver was "very experienced" and had only been on duty for an hour. Investigations are underway.

Transport company ATM said it was "deeply shaken" by the incident. The derailment happened during Milan Fashion Week, with the city hosting international visitors.

Source: www.bbc.com