Train driver Pavel Mishin is being hailed as a hero for saving hundreds of passengers when a road overpass collapsed in front of his train in the Bryansk region. Mishin died in the incident on May 31, but his actions are credited with minimizing the casualties.

The incident occurred as passenger train No. 86, traveling from Klimov to Moscow, approached the collapsed overpass. Mishin immediately initiated emergency braking and instructed his assistant to seek shelter in the engine room.

Russian Railways praised Mishin’s “highest professionalism, dedication and courage,” stating that his self-sacrificing actions slowed the train significantly before the collision. The company has pledged full support to Mishin’s family.

The collapse of the road bridge on the night of June 1 resulted in the derailment of the train carriages. Seven people died, including Mishin and two children, and over one hundred were injured. Authorities reported that the bridge collapse was the result of an explosion.

The number of people injured has risen to 97, with 64 still hospitalized, including four children.