At least 68 dead in high-speed train collision near Toledo, Spain, Oct. 29
TOLEDO, Spain — At least 68 people were killed when two high-speed trains collided early Sunday morning, approximately 9 a.m., south of Madrid. Rescue operations are ongoing, with emergency responders scouring wreckage for additional victims.
According to authorities, the disaster occurred when a Renfe train was mistakenly cleared to continue despite an active red signal due to a stationary Iryo train ahead. Transport Minister Oscar Puente cited a computer communications failure as the cause of the signal error.
Emergency services, including ambulances and helicopters, were deployed to the scene. Witnesses reported seeing severe injuries among passengers, with Health Minister Mónica García urging blood donations. Reports indicate that 147 people were aboard the Iryo train, while the Renfe train had 397.
The collision marks Spain's second deadly rail accident this year and the deadliest in Europe since 2013. In January, another high-speed train accident in Cordoba resulted in 46 fatalities. Following today's incident, Renfe activated a support line for victims' families.
As investigations begin, authorities have yet to provide a total for the injured. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed condolences via social media and is en route to the crash site.
Details surrounding the collision's causes remain under investigation, with further updates expected as more information becomes available.