Spain train collision: At least 10 killed on high-speed line as services halt

Collision near Urda

The two trains collided near the town of Urda in Toledo province, just after 9 a.m. local time. Manuel Galans, Urda’s mayor, said people had been injured. A spokeswoman for the Castilla-La Mancha regional government confirmed at least 10 deaths and said the number might rise. Spanish Health Minister Monica Garcia said it was too early to confirm a final casualty figure.

Damage and rescue response

Images from the scene showed at least two badly damaged carriages lying on their sides after tumbling down an embankment. A TVE reporter described the scene as chaotic, with ambulances and emergency vehicles arriving continuously.

Emergency services said several fire crews, three helicopters and two mobile intensive care units were being deployed. Garcia said nearby hospitals with intensive care beds were needed. El Pais cited witnesses reporting many injuries and the arrival of medical teams.

Rail service suspended

Adif said rail traffic on the Madrid-Andalusia high-speed line was suspended after the collision. Services between Madrid and Seville were also halted. The cause was not immediately known. Initial reports suggested one train struck the rear of another that had been stationary.

Passengers and official reaction

The regional government spokeswoman said one train, operated by AVE, reportedly carried 397 passengers, while an IRYO train had 146 people on board. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said he was shocked by the serious accident. He said emergency services were assisting those affected in coordination with the administrations involved, and expressed support for victims and their families.