‘Night of Deep Pain’: Train Crash in Southern Spain Leaves 39 Dead

Spain is in mourning after a devastating train crash in southern Andalusia left 39 people dead and dozens injured. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the incident as a “night of deep pain”, while rescue teams worked tirelessly through the night to help survivors.

The collision occurred on January 18, 2026, near the municipality of Adamuz in Córdoba province, involving two high-speed trains traveling on a major route connecting southern and central Spain.

What Happened

According to Spanish rail operator ADIF, a high-speed Iryo train from Málaga to Madrid derailed on a straight section of track and collided with a Madrid-to-Huelva Renfe train. The impact was so severe that several carriages were thrown off the tracks, creating a scene of twisted metal and chaos.

Rescuers worked through the night, using floodlights to search for trapped passengers. Video footage from the site shows emergency personnel pulling survivors from overturned carriages and providing urgent medical care.

The Human Toll

The confirmed death toll is 39, though authorities caution that the number could rise as recovery operations continue. Around 75 passengers were hospitalized, many with serious injuries, and approximately 150 people were affected overall.

Local hospitals converted sports centers and emergency facilities into triage stations, while families anxiously awaited news of loved ones. The scale of the disaster has left a lasting mark on the local community and the nation as a whole.

A Nation in Shock

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez took to social media, calling it a “night of deep pain for our country” and extending condolences to the victims’ families. King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia also issued statements expressing sorrow.

World leaders, including Emmanuel Macron and Ursula von der Leyen, have shared condolences, highlighting the international attention this tragedy has drawn.

Investigations Underway

Authorities have launched an urgent investigation into the cause of the crash. Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the derailment as “extremely strange”, particularly since it occurred on a recently renovated, straight section of track.

Engineers are examining tracks, signaling systems, and train equipment. Officials warn that it may take weeks or months before the investigation produces conclusive results.

Impact on Rail Travel

High-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalusian cities like Seville, Córdoba, Granada, and Málaga were immediately suspended. The crash highlights vulnerabilities in a network that is usually considered one of Europe’s safest and most modern.

This disaster recalls the 2013 Santiago de Compostela derailment, when 80 lives were lost, raising questions about ongoing rail safety and infrastructure monitoring.

Survivors’ Stories

Survivors describe the moment of impact as earth-shaking, with carriages violently thrown and windows shattered. Many had to use emergency hammers to escape, revealing both the terror and resilience experienced in those moments.

These personal stories humanize the tragedy, showing that beyond statistics, lives and families were irreversibly affected.

Looking Ahead

As Spain mourns, the country and the world await answers about how such a devastating crash could happen. The investigation will likely prompt renewed scrutiny on rail safety, infrastructure investment, and emergency preparedness.

The coming weeks will also be a time of healing and reflection, honoring the lives lost and the heroic efforts of rescuers. This tragic night will remain a somber chapter in Spain’s modern history.

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