Spain(The COW News Digital)At least 21 people were killed and more than 100 others injured after a serious train accident in southern Spain, authorities confirmed on Sunday. The incident occurred when a high-speed passenger train derailed and collided with an oncoming train traveling in the opposite direction, causing both trains to leave the tracks and suffer extensive damage.
According to international news agencies, the accident took place on a busy rail route linking Madrid with the southern city of Huelva. Preliminary reports indicate that the high-speed train derailed first, before crashing into the second train, triggering a chain reaction that led to widespread destruction of rail cars and infrastructure.
Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes, launching a large-scale rescue operation involving ambulances, firefighters, and medical teams. Rescuers worked for several hours to evacuate injured passengers, some of whom were trapped inside damaged compartments. Helicopters were also deployed to airlift critically injured victims to nearby hospitals.
Officials said that more than 100 passengers sustained injuries, with at least 21 reported to be in critical condition. Hospitals across the region were placed on emergency alert to handle the influx of casualties. Among the deceased is the driver of the Madrid-to-Huelva train, authorities confirmed.
At the time of the crash, more than 300 passengers were traveling on one train, while approximately 100 passengers were onboard the second train. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion, with passengers screaming for help amid twisted metal and shattered windows.
Rail traffic on the affected route was immediately suspended following the accident. Spain’s railway authorities announced that services would remain halted until safety inspections are completed and debris is cleared. Alternative transport arrangements were introduced for stranded passengers.
Government officials expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and extended condolences to the families of the victims. A formal investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident. Investigators are examining technical data, track conditions, and signaling systems, while also reviewing whether speed or mechanical failure played a role.
The tragedy has once again raised concerns about rail safety, prompting calls for stricter safety checks and enhanced monitoring of high-speed train operations across the country.
