21 killed, 75 injured in high-speed train collision in Spain

At least 21 people were killed and 75 others injured after two high-speed trains collided in southern Spain on Sunday. The accident occurred when a derailed train slammed into an oncoming service near Cordoba. Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise as assessments continue.

According to international media reports, the tail end of an evening train travelling from Malaga to Madrid with around 300 passengers derailed at about 7:45 p.m. local time. It struck another train carrying nearly 200 passengers from Madrid to Huelva.

Rescue Operations Completed, Toll May Rise

Spain’s Transport Minister Puente confirmed after midnight that 21 deaths had been recorded and that all survivors had been removed from the wreckage. However, he cautioned that more victims may still be identified.

Andalusia regional President Juanma Moreno said 75 injured passengers were admitted to hospitals, including 15 in serious condition. “We have a very difficult night ahead,” said Andalusia’s regional health chief, Antonio Sanz.

Cause of Crash Remains Unclear

Officials described the incident as “very strange.” Puente noted that the crash occurred on a section of track renovated in May. He added that the derailed train was less than four years old and operated by the private company Iryo. The second train, run by state-owned Renfe, suffered the heaviest impact at its front section.

Passengers Describe ‘Earthquake-Like’ Impact

Passengers reported the derailment felt like an earthquake. A Spanish journalist, who was on board, said windows were smashed with emergency hammers as passengers escaped the derailed carriage.