Spain mourns 21 dead in high speed train collision

January 19, 2026 / 9:35 AM

Sharjah24-AFP: Spain was reeling on Monday after a collision between two high-speed trains in the southern region of Andalusia killed at least 21 people and injured more than 70, prompting Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to describe the tragedy as a “night of deep pain”.

The disaster occurred on Sunday evening when a train travelling from Málaga to Madrid derailed near Adamuz in the province of Córdoba, crossing onto the opposite track and colliding with an oncoming service. Spain’s rail infrastructure operator Adif said both trains derailed following the impact.

Emergency response and investigation

Antonio Sanz, Andalusia’s top emergency official, said at least 73 people were injured and warned the death toll could rise. Transport Minister Óscar Puente said 30 injured passengers were hospitalised in serious condition, adding that the accident occurred on a straight, fully renovated section of track, making the incident “extremely strange”.

Rail operator Iryo said around 300 passengers were on board its Málaga–Madrid service, complicating rescue efforts as twisted carriages trapped victims.

National and international solidarity

High-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalusian cities were suspended, and Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia expressed condolences. Messages of sympathy also came from French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.