A devastating train crash in southern Spain has left at least 21 people dead and scores injured, after two high-speed services derailed in a catastrophic collision on Sunday evening.
Details of the Tragedy
The horrific incident occurred near the town of Adamuz, in the province of Córdoba, at approximately 6:40 p.m. local time (1740 GMT). According to Spain's rail infrastructure manager, Adif, the Iryo 6189 service travelling from Málaga to Madrid derailed from its track. The train then crashed onto an adjacent line, where it was struck by an oncoming Madrid to Huelva service, causing the second train to also leave the rails.
State broadcaster Television Española reported that the accident resulted in 100 injuries, with 25 people in a serious condition. Tragically, the driver of one of the trains was confirmed to be among the fatalities. The derailment happened roughly ten minutes after the Iryo train had departed from Córdoba station, heading north towards the capital.
Emergency Response and Service Suspension
Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the scene, with numerous ambulances and rescue vehicles attending the complex crash site. Adif stated it was providing support to the relatives of the victims and coordinating closely with all emergency responders.
In the aftermath, Adif announced the suspension of all high-speed rail traffic on key routes connecting Madrid with Andalusia. Services to Córdoba, Seville, Málaga, and Huelva will be suspended, at least throughout Monday, 19 January 2026, as investigations begin and the wreckage is cleared.
Political Reaction and Investigation
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his profound concern over the accident. "Very concerned about the accident between two high-speed trains that have derailed in Adamuz (Córdoba)," he wrote on the social media platform X. He confirmed that the government was working with all competent authorities and emergency services to assist passengers.
The focus now turns to the cause of the initial derailment. Spain's high-speed rail network, known for its safety record, will be under intense scrutiny as officials from Adif and the relevant train operators commence a full investigation into one of the country's worst rail disasters in recent years.
