Two High-Speed Trains Collide in Spain: At Least 68 Dead
At least 68 people lost their lives as a result of the collision of two high-speed trains in Spain's Toledo region. Officials stated that the accident was caused by a computer failure and a control center decision.
At least 68 people lost their lives and numerous others were injured as a result of the collision of two high-speed trains traveling from Madrid to Seville in Spain's Toledo province. Minister of Transport Óscar Puente announced that the accident was triggered by a computer failure in the signaling system and a decision by the control center. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez declared three days of national mourning across the country.
Two high-speed trains belonging to the companies RENFE and IRYO operating between Madrid and Seville collided between the towns of Urda and Los Yébenes. The train belonging to the state railway company RENFE, carrying 397 passengers, rear-ended the stationary train belonging to the private firm IRYO, which had 147 passengers and was moving in the same direction. Following the accident, train services between Madrid, Ciudad Real, and Andalusia were suspended.
Minister of Transport Óscar Puente reported that the computer failure, which caused security systems to be disabled on a 63-kilometer stretch, occurred around 8:30 AM, and the collision took place at 8:53 AM. It was stated that the central command allowed the RENFE train to continue on its way without speed restrictions despite an active stop signal. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited the accident site, declared national mourning, and emphasized that measures regarding railway safety would be increased.