Two trains have collided between Hilleroed and Kagerup, north of Copenhagen, Denmark, April 23, 2026. (Photo: VCG)

Five people are in critical condition after two trains collided head-on in Denmark on Thursday morning, Danish broadcaster DR reported.

A total of 17 passengers were injured when two trains carrying 38 people collided between Hillerod and Kagerup, about 50 km north of Copenhagen, said the report.

Morten Pedersen, police inspector with North Zealand Police, described the crash as a "very serious accident." He said police received the report at 06:29 a.m. local time (0429 GMT), prompting emergency response teams to be dispatched to the scene.

A military helicopter, several ambulances and medical transport units were deployed to the scene. Police said the road section has been closed and is expected to remain shut for an extended period.

The injured were transported to hospitals in the region. Police said that the number of critically injured may rise as the situation remains dynamic.

The cause of the incident was not immediately clear.

Emergency operations at the scene have been completed, and police are continuing follow-up work. Local authorities in Hillerod Municipality have set up a crisis center for those affected.