ADAMUZ, Spain — A high-speed train collision in southern Spain has left at least 39 people dead and scores injured, authorities confirmed Monday, after a train derailed and rammed into another on a busy rail line near Adamuz in Córdoba province late Sunday evening.
The crash occurred at about 7:45 p.m. local time when an Iryo high-speed train travelling from Málaga to Madrid derailed on a straight, recently renovated section of track and crossed onto the adjacent line, striking another high-speed train bound from Madrid to Huelva. Both trains derailed in the impact, which transported passengers into carriages and scattered debris across the railway embankment.
Spain’s Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the accident as “extremely strange,” noting that the derailment happened on a section of track that had been fully refurbished just months earlier and that the derailed train was “practically new.” Officials said it was too early to determine the cause, and a full investigation is now underway.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Emergency teams, including the Spanish Civil Guard, Civil Defense, and the Spanish Red Cross, have been working through the night and into Monday to assist survivors, recover victims and offer support to families. At least 39 people are confirmed dead, with authorities warning the toll could still rise as identification and recovery continue. More than 120 people were injured, with dozens in serious or critical condition in hospitals in Córdoba and nearby cities.
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as emergency crews pulled passengers from wrecked carriages. Some survivors had to use emergency tools to break windows and escape amid twisted metal and smoke. A journalist aboard one of the trains likened the impact to an “earthquake,” capturing the sudden violence of the collision.
Government Response and Rail Disruption
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed deep sorrow, calling it a “night of profound pain” for the nation and pledging full government support for rescue and recovery operations. Sánchez also cancelled scheduled travel to oversee the response and meet with affected families. Local and regional authorities have established support centres for relatives at key train stations.
Rail services between Madrid and Andalusian cities have been suspended as crews clear tracks and authorities assess infrastructure safety. The collision has halted high-speed lines, disrupting one of Europe’s busiest rail networks.
High-Speed Train Collision in Southern Spain Kills at Least 39, Injures Scores#spain #accident #news #anntimes pic.twitter.com/uFiuyz7I2B
— ANN Times (@the_anntimes) January 19, 2026
