Two high-speed trains collide in Spain, at least 46 people killed

The incident occurred at 8:54 local time on the Madrid — Andalusia railway line. According to preliminary data, an AVE train struck the rear of an Iryo train standing on the tracks. Witnesses said that several AVE carriages “literally flew into the air”, and two carriages fell down an embankment.

High-speed train service between Madrid, Ciudad Real, and Andalusia has been suspended. Several rescue and medical teams were dispatched to the scene.

ABC reports that the accident was allegedly caused by a failure in the automatic safety system. The publication also says that the dispatcher did not warn the AVE train driver about the Iryo train standing on the tracks.

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said he was deeply saddened by the railway disaster in Urda and expressed solidarity and support for the victims and their families.

Sources

• Novaya Gazeta Europe