In a heart-breaking incident that has shocked the British community, two deaf friends on a dream holiday to Portugal were tragically killed after being struck by an oncoming train they could not hear approaching.
The fatal accident occurred near the picturesque coastal town of Ovar, north of Porto, as the two men, both British nationals, were walking along the railway tracks. Authorities confirmed that despite the train driver sounding multiple warning blasts, the victims, due to their profound deafness, were completely unaware of the imminent danger.
Emergency services rushed to the scene near the town of Cortegaça, but the two friends were pronounced dead instantly from the catastrophic injuries sustained in the impact. The local Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) has launched a full investigation into the precise circumstances surrounding the devastating incident.
A community in mourning
The news has sent ripples of grief through the deaf community in the UK and amongst British expatriates in Portugal. The incident highlights the profound challenges and potential dangers faced by deaf individuals in unfamiliar environments, particularly around infrastructure like railways that rely heavily on auditory warnings.
Portuguese railway officials have expressed their condolences to the families of the victims. An initial report suggests the men may have been attempting to take a shortcut when the tragedy unfolded. This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of heeding safety signage and avoiding railway lines, which are exclusively for train use.
Foreign Office officials are providing support to the families of the two British men and are in close contact with Portuguese authorities as the investigation continues.
