Adamuz (Spain): A tragic Spain train collision in the southern part of the country claimed at least 21 lives and left dozens injured after two trains crashed near the municipality of Adamuz, close to Córdoba, on Sunday evening, Spanish authorities said.
According to Spain’s Transport Minister Oscar Puente, the accident occurred when a high-speed Iryo train, travelling from Malaga to Madrid, derailed and entered an adjacent track. The derailed coaches then collided head-on with a Renfe-operated train that was heading from Madrid to Huelva.
Casualties and Rescue Operations
Andalusian regional health officials confirmed that 21 people were killed, including the driver of the Renfe train. Around 75 injured passengers were rushed to hospitals, with at least 15 reported to be in critical condition.
The Iryo train was carrying nearly 300 passengers, while the Renfe train had about 100 onboard. Officials said the most extensive damage was reported in the first two coaches of the Renfe train, which was travelling at a speed of nearly 200 km/h at the time of impact.
Emergency teams, including firefighters, medical personnel, and security forces, were deployed immediately. Several passengers were rescued after windows were smashed using emergency hammers to escape smoke-filled and dark compartments.
Shock Across Spain and Europe
The Spain train collision has sent shockwaves across the country and beyond. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed deep grief, calling it a “night of immense sorrow” for Spain. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia conveyed condolences to the families of the victims.
Messages of sympathy also poured in from international leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and French President Emmanuel Macron, who extended support to Spain during the tragedy.
Eyewitness Accounts and Rail Disruptions
Survivors described the crash as sudden and terrifying. One passenger compared the impact to an earthquake, saying the train shook violently before power was lost. Smoke quickly filled the coaches, forcing passengers to break windows to escape.
Transport Minister Puente said the derailment was “highly unusual,” especially since the track section was straight and had undergone maintenance just two months ago. Spain’s rail infrastructure authority Adif has suspended all high-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalusia until further notice.
Special assistance centres have been set up at major stations, including Madrid Atocha, Seville, Córdoba, Malaga, and Huelva, to help families of the victims.
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