At least 31 people have been killed after two high-speed trains collided near Urda in Spain’s Toledo province. Many others were injured. Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise as investigators work to establish the cause.
The crash happened at 8:54 a.m. on Wednesday on the Madrid–Seville line. Spanish media, citing official sources, reported that a Renfe AVE train struck an Iryo train that was stopped on the tracks. More than 500 passengers were reportedly aboard the two trains. Several carriages derailed, and two were reported to have fallen down an embankment.
Signalling system under scrutiny
One of the initial lines of inquiry is possible human error, but the exact cause has not been confirmed. Spain’s public broadcaster RTVE reported that the main LZB train-control and protection system was experiencing a fault at the time and an alternative signalling method was in use. Investigators are examining why the Renfe train continued past a red signal, including the circumstances under which permission to proceed may have been given.
High-speed services suspended
Rail infrastructure operator Adif said high-speed services between Madrid and Andalusia remain suspended. Support points have been set up at the stations in Madrid, Seville, Córdoba and Málaga for passengers affected by the crash.
Relatives and passengers can contact Renfe on 900 10 10 20 or Iryo on 900 001 403. PressEuropa will update this report as further confirmed information becomes available.
