Three people died and two others were found in critical condition in a septic tank at a tannery in Runkel, State of Hesse, Germany on Thursday, April 2026.

The incident occurred in the late afternoon on Thursday at a tannery in Runkel, located northwest of Frankfurt. The two workers were taken to the hospital and remain in critical condition.

Around 150 emergency personnel were deployed to the scene. Authorities said it is still unclear what caused the deaths. According to local media reports, it is believed the workers may have inhaled poisonous gases after descending into the tank at the tannery, but it is not confirmed. An investigation is ongoing.

Approximately 45 to 50 emergency personnel who had direct contact with the victims were decontaminated as a precaution and examined by medical professionals. Officials confirmed there is no danger to the public.

Hesse Interior Minister Roman Poseck visited the site on Thursday evening and expressed condolences.

“Hesse mourns the people who lost their lives here today through a terrible tragedy. My thoughts are with the families and the seriously injured in these very difficult hours.”

– Roman Poseck, Interior Minister, Hesse

Poseck thanked the emergency responders, particularly the fire services, for their professional response in a challenging situation. He said this was the first incident with three fatalities during his time in office, making the situation particularly tragic.

An investigation into the exact cause of the accident is ongoing.