Spain high speed rail crash kills at least 10; reports cite 46 dead

Collision between two trains

The crash involved a Renfe train and an Iryo train travelling from Madrid to Seville. It occurred between the towns of Mora and Orgaz shortly after 9am. A total of 544 people were travelling on the two trains, according to the account. The headline gives a toll of at least 10, while the story's later figures are higher.

Conflicting reports on casualties

The story first says at least 46 people are feared dead. It later reports that El Español, citing the Civil Protection authority, said at least 46 had been killed.

Local authorities said they believe the number could rise. The story described a higher toll as potentially making the crash one of the worst train accidents in Spain’s modern history.

Passengers describe the impact

Miguel, who was travelling with colleagues in a rear car, described the crash to COPE radio. He said passengers heard a loud impact and saw a wrecked train through a window.

Another passenger said the train seemed to have derailed and was tilted after people got out. The passenger also described seeing many injured people and others who were shaken.

Services cancelled after crash

Iryo said it had activated all emergency protocols after its train collided with the Renfe train. The company did not provide further operational details in the account. The operator cancelled services leaving Madrid-Puerta de Atocha for the Southern Corridor. Emergency services were pictured at the scene.