A catastrophic rail accident in southern Spain has claimed the lives of at least 39 people and left scores more injured. The collision, which occurred on the evening of January 18, 2026, has sparked an urgent investigation into how two modern, high-speed trains could collide on a recently renovated stretch of track.
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At roughly 7:40 PM, a private Iryo train traveling from Málaga to Madrid derailed near the town of Adamuz. The derailment caused the rear carriages to swing into the path of a state-operated Renfe train heading in the opposite direction.
The impact was severe enough to throw several carriages down a 4-meter embankment, leaving a trail of wreckage that local officials described as a scene of “unprecedented devastation.”
2. Casualty Report and Rescue Operations
Emergency crews worked through the night under floodlights to reach survivors.
- Fatalities: 39 confirmed dead, including one of the train drivers.
- Injuries: Over 150 injured, with 15 people currently in intensive care.
- Rescue Status: The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) remains on-site, using specialized cutting equipment to access the most damaged carriages.
3. “Strange” Circumstances and Investigation
- Modern Infrastructure: The tracks were upgraded less than a year ago (May 2025).
- Safety Systems: Both trains were equipped with advanced automatic braking and signaling technology that should have prevented such a collision.
- Investigation: A technical commission is currently reviewing “black box” data to determine if the cause was mechanical failure, track subsidence, or human error.
4. Impact on National Travel
Spain has entered a period of mourning, and the rail network is facing significant disruptions:
- Route Closures: All high-speed lines connecting Madrid to Seville, Málaga, and Granada are suspended.
- Alternative Transport: Renfe and Iryo are organizing bus bridges for stranded passengers, though delays are expected to last for several days.
