250 kilo bomb in Pfungstadt: Successful defusal after evacuation!

250 kilo bomb in Pfungstadt: Successful defusal after evacuation!

In Pfungstadt, a small town in southern Hesse, a World War II bomb weighing 250 kg was discovered on November 3, 2025. The unexploded bomb was located on the grounds of the Bundeswehr's Major Plagge barracks, a place that has exciting military stories. The discovery caused excitement in the community, and the explosive ordnance disposal service intervened to defuse the situation.

The bomb was defused on the same day at exactly 1 p.m. Around 100 people had to leave their homes and offices within a 500-meter radius of the site. During this time, not only federal highway 3, but also Reißstraße and “An der Neue Bergstraße” were closed to traffic. In order to ensure safety during the defusing, the airspace over the area was even closed, as the Darmstadt regional council announced.

Return to normality

After the defusing was successfully completed, those affected were soon able to return to their usual surroundings. The closures were immediately lifted, making it easier for residents and employees to access their homes and work locations. Finally, some normality was able to return after the day was dominated by the explosive defusing.

The history of the large bascule bridges, often referred to as movable bridges, is somewhat similar to this event. These bridges are known for clearing boat traffic and can be both single and double leaf. The name “Bascule” comes from the French term for weighing pan and describes the balancing function of these bridges, which is supported by a counterweight. They are the most common type of movable bridge because they open quickly and require little energy. Their use has a long tradition that goes back to ancient times.

The connection to the region

Overall, this incident in Pfungstadt shows how attentive the authorities are to potential dangers and how important it is to take safety precautions. The successful defusing of the bomb is not only a sign of the professionalism of the explosive ordnance disposal service, but also an example of how quick reactions can ensure the safety of an entire community. Everyone can be sure that everything will be done to avoid similar incidents in the future.

The people of Pfungstadt can breathe a sigh of relief, the danger is over and the stories of old World War relics remain in their memories, while the region's modern infrastructure continues to create a safe environment for all citizens. When the bridges in the area resume their majestic function, daily life will continue to be a little more relaxed.

For further information on this incident, please visit the Tagesschau's coverage of the bomb in Pfungstadt and the Bascule Bridge.