89 sheep killed by train wheels: farmers face €26,000 bill

In Portugal, after a collision with a flock of sheep, the railway infrastructure manager has claimed more than €26,000 from two farmers for damages to a train and disruption to traffic.

The accident happened back on 28 December 2025. But only now has it become clear what damages have been claimed by the railway company.

A regional passenger train, coming around a curve, spotted a herd of sheep on the tracks. Despite emergency braking, a collision could not be avoided – after the impact, the formation came to a halt only after about 540 metres.

The accident killed 89 sheep. Of these, 65 belonged to one farmer and 24 to another. In addition to the loss of livestock, the owners are now facing potential financial losses.

Six flights have been cancelled and two more partially cancelled as a result of the incident. In total, 36 trains were delayed by 580 minutes, or almost 10 hours. A train was also damaged.

The representatives of the farmers disagree with the claim for damages and claim that it was an accident. The case has attracted widespread attention as it may set a precedent for the extent to which livestock owners can be held liable for livestock falling on railway tracks.

Sheep and other livestock falling on transport lines (roads, railways) is a common occurrence in southern countries.