At Least 39 Killed in Deadly Train Collision in Spain

International Desk: PNN

In Spain, at least 39 people have died after a high-speed train derailed and collided with another train traveling in the opposite direction. At least 73 others were injured, including 24 in critical condition. Authorities have described this as one of the most severe rail accidents in over a decade in the country.

The accident occurred on Sunday evening near Adamuz in Andalusia. The high-speed ‘Irio’ train, traveling from Malaga to Madrid, had 371 passengers on board. Three rear carriages derailed and collided forcefully with the front of another high-speed train traveling in the opposite direction. As a result, both trains overturned, with some carriages falling into adjacent ditches.

By Monday morning, the death toll rose to 39, and the injured were admitted to various local hospitals. Many passengers were seen escaping through broken windows or by climbing onto train roofs. According to media reports, the Alvia service driver traveling from Madrid to Huelva was also among the deceased.

Emergency services, including fire brigades, police, and military units, worked together to rescue passengers trapped inside the trains. Rescue workers reported that extracting people from the bent metal carriages in darkness was extremely challenging.

The accident has cast a shadow of mourning across Spain. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described it as “a night of deep sorrow for the nation.” Leaders from various European countries also expressed condolences.

Spain’s Transport Minister Oscar Puente said the cause of the accident remains unknown. He noted that the incident occurred on a straight track recently renovated, which even railway experts find mysterious.

The regional government of Andalusia reported that the severely damaged carriages delayed the recovery and identification of the dead. Forensic doctors are working to identify the victims. High-speed rail connections between Madrid and Andalusia have been temporarily suspended, with some routes canceled or diverted. Limited services continue on other commercial lines.

Meanwhile, the King and Queen of Spain issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wishing speedy recovery to the injured. Rail companies involved expressed regret and assured that urgent assistance was provided to passengers and their families.