Adamuz, Spain — A tragic collision between two high-speed trains occurred late Sunday near Cordoba, resulting in at least 40 fatalities and numerous injuries.
The incident took place around 10:15 p.m. when a northbound train operated by Iryo, traveling from Malaga to Madrid, collided with a southbound Renfe train en route from Madrid to Huelva. The rear coaches of the Iryo train were struck, causing both trains to derail and some cars to plunge off an embankment.
Emergency services, including firefighters and medical personnel, were dispatched to the scene, where multiple passengers were trapped in the wreckage. At least 41 individuals were hospitalized, according to regional officials. Authorities confirmed that the local hospitals, including Coroba's Reina Sofia Hospital, are treating victims.
Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, visited the site and announced a three-day period of mourning. “We will find the answer, and when it is known, we will inform the public,” he stated.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with some passengers escaping through windows as others struggled to reach safety. Authorities reported that the accident is the deadliest railway incident in Spain in over a decade.
Initial investigations revealed that the collision occurred on a recently renovated stretch of track, prompting questions about the circumstances leading to the crash. Transport Minister Óscar Puente called the event “extremely unusual,” noting that both trains were operating below the speed limit.
An official investigation by the relevant transportation agencies is ongoing to determine the cause of the crash. Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.