The death toll from the rail collision that occurred at 8:54 am near Urda, in the province of Toledo, on the Madrid-Seville high-speed line has risen to at least 64. The figure was confirmed by the regional government of Castile-La Mancha.
A Renfe train struck an Iryo convoy that was stopped on the tracks. Two carriages plunged down an embankment. Authorities report at least one hundred injured, with several others in very serious condition.
Italy’s Foreign Ministry (Farnesina) confirmed that five Italians were travelling on the Iryo train: four are in good condition, while checks are underway regarding the fifth. Verification of the passengers aboard the Renfe train is also continuing.
The Italian consul has reached the scene of the accident. A team from the Consulate is visiting hospitals and survivor reception centres to assist Italian nationals.
According to figures from rail operator Adif, the Iryo train was carrying 146 passengers and an infant, while the Renfe train had 397 people on board. Firefighters, paramedics, the Civil Guard and military personnel from the Emergency Response Unit are taking part in the rescue effort.
Regarding the causes, El País reports that human error following a signalling system failure is being investigated, citing government sources. Traffic is said to have been managed manually, with an operator mistakenly authorising the Renfe train to proceed.
High-speed connections between Madrid and Andalusia have been suspended in both directions. A support centre for relatives has been set up at Madrid’s Atocha station, while authorities have urged the public to donate blood.
