Investigators examining Spain’s deadly high-speed train collision are focusing on why a Renfe AVE train was allowed to resume its journey after a safety and communications failure, even though an Iryo train remained stopped on the track. Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the control centre’s decision to authorise the restart as “inexplicable”. At least 68 people have died in the crash.
According to statements reported by El País and Reuters, a fault in the safety and computer communications system triggered a red signal and automatically halted train movements. Puente said an erroneous decision may then have been made to allow the Renfe train to continue. Authorities are investigating who issued that authorisation and what information was available at the time.
Another driver reportedly warned the control centre
According to the official account reported by El País, the driver of another train not involved in the crash had warned the control centre that normal operations could not resume after the safety and communications fault. Trains were supposed to proceed by sight, at a speed that would allow them to stop before any obstruction. Investigators are examining whether and how this warning was taken into account in the subsequent authorisation.
Sánchez pledges a full investigation
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez promised a thorough investigation during a statement near the crash site. He said any negligence or shortcomings in safety systems would be addressed firmly. Spain has declared three days of mourning from October 29 to 31.
The official cause of the collision has not yet been established. Investigators are examining technical records, control-centre decisions and the signalling system.
