An American college professor has been identified among the 16 people who died when the Gloria funicular derailed and crashed in Lisbon. Professor Heather Hall, a mother of two from South Carolina, was in Portugal for a conference when the tragedy occurred.
Hall, who taught at the College of Charleston, was described by her family as a beloved daughter, sister, mother, educator and advocate who passed away living life fully. The funicular lost control during rush hour on Wednesday at 6 p.m. local time, derailing and crashing into a building. More than 20 people were injured, five of whom remain in serious condition.
Portuguese authorities are treating the incident as an accident, though the exact cause remains unknown. The government expressed its condolences, saying a tragic accident caused irreparable loss of life. The Gloria funicular, a 140-year-old cable railway, is one of three that climb Lisbon's steep hills.
Other victims identified include five Portuguese nationals, three British citizens, two Canadians, two South Koreans, one French, one Swiss and one Ukrainian. Hall's family paid tribute to her as a devoted mother who wanted her children to live fully. The College of Charleston's dean called her death a tragic loss, recalling her energy and kindness. South Carolina Senator Tim Scott also offered condolences, praising her dedication to education.
