English
Spain train crash kills at least 39 people after a violent high-speed rail collision on Sunday night. The tragedy occurred near the town of Adamuz in the province of Cordoba. According to rail operator Adif, a private Iryo train derailed and crossed onto an adjacent track. It then slammed into an oncoming Renfe train traveling in the opposite direction. Consequently, the second train’s lead carriages plummeted down a 4-meter slope. Emergency responders worked through the night to rescue nearly 500 passengers from the wreckage.
Devastation and difficult recovery efforts
Andalusia regional president Juanma Moreno described the crash site as a “mass of twisted iron.” He noted the impact was so violent that some bodies lay hundreds of meters away. Therefore, officials expect the death toll to rise as firefighters lift heavy metal debris. Currently, 159 people remain injured, with 12 adults and one child in critical condition. Authorities have requested DNA samples from families to help identify victims in the most damaged carriages. “Stay connected to every major update — subscribe and follow us on the PhoenixQ website and across our social media platforms.”
Officials probe “strange” causes of the derailment
Transport Minister Óscar Puente called the incident “truly strange” during a Monday press conference. He noted the derailment happened on a flat, straight section of track renovated just last May. Furthermore, the Iryo train involved was manufactured in 2022 and passed safety checks only days prior. Renfe officials stated that both trains were traveling well under the 250 kph speed limit. While investigators analyze data recorders, human error has already been ruled out.
National response and suspension of services
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited the site and declared three days of national mourning. He described the accident as a “night of deep pain” for all Spaniards. In response, King Felipe VI also expressed his condolences to the distraught families. Adif has suspended all rail services between Madrid and Andalusia until at least Tuesday. This Spain train crash kills the highest number of passengers on a high-speed line since 1992.
