By Gloria Ogbonna
At least 21 people were killed and more than 100 others were injured on Sunday after two high-speed passenger trains collided in southern Spain, officials confirmed, marking one of the country’s deadliest rail disasters in recent years.
According to Spain’s Interior Minister, the tragedy unfolded when a high-speed train traveling from Málaga to Madrid derailed near the town of Adamuz. After leaving the tracks, the train crossed over into an adjacent rail line, where it slammed into another passenger train that was traveling in the opposite direction, from Madrid to Huelva.
The violent collision caused widespread destruction, sending train cars off the tracks and trapping passengers inside the wreckage. Emergency services rushed to the scene as firefighters, paramedics, and police worked urgently to rescue survivors and provide medical assistance to the injured.
Officials reported that of those hurt, at least 75 people were hospitalized. Among them, 15 are listed in very serious condition, while five remain in critical, life-threatening condition.
In addition, approximately 170 passengers suffered minor injuries and were treated either at the scene or at nearby medical facilities.
Authorities immediately suspended all rail traffic between Madrid and the Andalusia region as a safety precaution, causing major travel disruptions across southern Spain. Rescue and recovery operations continued throughout the day, with officials urging the public to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to work without interference.
The cause of the derailment has not yet been determined, and investigators have not released any preliminary findings. Rail safety experts are expected to examine track conditions, train speed, signaling systems, and mechanical factors as part of the ongoing investigation.
Iryo, the company operating the train that initially derailed, issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the incident. The company said it has activated all emergency response protocols and is cooperating fully with authorities to manage the aftermath and support victims and their families.
“Iryo deeply regrets what has happened and has activated all emergency protocols, working closely with the competent authorities to manage the situation,” the company said in its statement.
Iryo also confirmed that approximately 300 passengers were on board the Málaga-to-Madrid train at the time of the derailment.
As Spain mourns the victims, government officials are expected to provide further updates as the investigation continues and more details emerge about the circumstances that led to the deadly collision.
Source Breitbart