At Least 39 Killed in Southern Spain Train Collision as Rescue Efforts Continue

At least 39 people have been killed and more than 150 injured after two trains collided in southern Spain, in what authorities have described as the country’s worst rail disaster in more than a decade.

The accident occurred on Sunday evening near the town of Adamuz in Córdoba province when a Madrid-bound high-speed train derailed and crossed onto the opposite track, colliding with an oncoming passenger train. Several carriages from both trains were thrown off the tracks, leaving twisted metal scattered along the line.

Spain’s Civil Guard said emergency crews worked through the night to rescue survivors and recover bodies trapped inside the wreckage. A number of those injured remain in critical condition and are being treated at hospitals across the region. Officials warned that the death toll could still rise as search operations continue.

Witnesses described scenes of panic following the crash, with passengers climbing out through broken windows and helping others escape before emergency services arrived. Temporary medical tents were set up near the site to provide immediate treatment.

Transport Minister Óscar Puente said the crash was “extremely unusual,” noting that it happened on a straight section of track that had recently undergone maintenance. An investigation has been launched to determine the cause, with authorities examining possible technical failures and human error.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez offered condolences to the victims’ families and said all necessary resources had been mobilised. Rail traffic on the affected Madrid–Andalusia route has been suspended, causing widespread disruption to services.

Officials said further updates would be provided as more information becomes available from the ongoing investigation.