A quiet ritual of greeting passing trains has blossomed into a local phenomenon in Switzerland. For nearly three decades, Martin Horber, a resident of Henggart in the canton of Solothurn, has been waving to railway passengers from his window, becoming a beloved fixture along the Winterthur–Schaffhausen line.
Horber’s dedication began in 1999, initially shared with his wife. Following her passing, he has continued the tradition solo, offering a cheerful wave to commuters and travelers alike. The practice, reported by Swiss publication Abo, has transformed Horber into a minor celebrity amongst those who regularly travel the route.
While Horber’s story is a heartwarming example of human connection, it arrives at a moment of heightened concern regarding safety on European public transport. Recent incidents, including a disturbing attack at Grenchen Nord station in Switzerland just last Sunday, have underscored the vulnerability of passengers and the need for increased security measures. According to the Solothurn cantonal police, an elderly man was seriously injured after being deliberately pushed onto the tracks as a train approached. The attacker remains at large, described as approximately 180 centimeters tall with a beard and carrying a backpack.
The Grenchen Nord incident is part of a troubling pattern. Earlier this year, an 18-year-old girl died in Hamburg, Germany, after being pushed onto subway tracks by a 25-year-old man from South Sudan. The two individuals were strangers. Similarly, in Lower Saxony, Germany, a 16-year-old girl was fatally pushed in front of a freight train by an Iraqi national last August. These events have sparked public outcry and calls for greater vigilance.
The contrast between Horber’s benign and welcoming gesture and these violent attacks is stark. His daily waves represent a positive interaction, a small moment of joy in the lives of those passing by. The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) actively promotes accessible and comfortable travel for seniors, offering assistance and tailored services, as highlighted on their website. However, these efforts are clearly challenged by the increasing threat of random acts of violence.
The incidents in Switzerland and Germany have prompted political responses. In Germany, Alice Weidel of the AfD party has labeled the situation a “scandal,” referencing the case of an Iraqi migrant who avoided prison after causing the death of a 16-year-old girl. While the political implications are complex and sensitive, the underlying concern remains the safety and security of passengers on public transportation.
Beyond Europe, similar incidents have occurred, drawing attention to the potential for danger on rail networks worldwide. A recent case in New York City, reported by the Daily Mail on February 11, 2026, involved a 72-year-old man who was pushed onto subway tracks, capturing the horrifying moment on his cell phone. The article details the incident as a “Christmas horror” and highlights the vulnerability of elderly passengers.
While the motivations behind these attacks vary, the common thread is a disturbing disregard for human life. Authorities are appealing for witnesses in the Grenchen Nord case and are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. The SBB, while focused on providing a positive travel experience, must also prioritize the safety of its passengers and employees.
Horber’s story, in its simplicity, serves as a poignant reminder of the power of small gestures and the importance of community. His unwavering dedication to waving at passing trains offers a beacon of positivity amidst a backdrop of increasing concern for safety on public transport. It’s a tradition that, hopefully, will continue for many years to come, representing a heartwarming connection between a local resident and the travelers who pass through his corner of Switzerland.
The incident in Grenchen Nord, and others like it, raise questions about the effectiveness of current security measures and the need for increased awareness among passengers and railway personnel. While the vast majority of train journeys are completed without incident, the potential for violence remains a serious concern, demanding a proactive and comprehensive approach to safety and security.
The story of Martin Horber, the man who waves at trains, is a small but significant piece of the larger narrative surrounding public transportation. It’s a story of connection, community, and the enduring power of a simple act of kindness. It’s also a story that, in the current climate, serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of safety and the importance of vigilance.
