MADRID — Spain is in deep mourning after a deadly collision involving two high-speed trains in Adamuz, near the city of Córdoba, on Sunday night (January 18, 2026). As of Monday (January 19, 2026), the death toll has risen to 39, with dozens more injured — many of them critically.
The tragedy unfolded when a Madrid-bound train derailed, crossed onto the opposite track, and collided head-on with an oncoming train. According to rail network operators, approximately 400 passengers and staff were on board the two trains combined.
Andalusia’s emergency services reported that at least 73 people were rushed to hospitals. Twenty-four victims are in serious condition, including four children.
Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the crash as a “highly unusual” and baffling incident. He revealed that even railway experts involved in the initial investigation have yet to find a logical explanation — particularly given that the collision occurred on a straight section of track.
“All the experts we have consulted are also struggling to understand what happened,” Puente said.
The trains involved were Freccia 1000 models, capable of reaching speeds of up to 400 kilometers per hour. The violent impact hurled several carriages off the tracks and down embankments. Most fatalities were reported in the front cars of the train traveling from Madrid to Huelva.
Rescue Operation Amid Chaos
Rescue efforts were described as harrowing. Twisted metal and shattered carriages severely hampered access to trapped passengers.
“We even had to move bodies in order to reach survivors. This was extremely difficult work,”
said Francisco Carmona, Head of the Córdoba Fire Department, speaking to public broadcaster RTVE.
Eyewitness accounts paint a picture of sheer terror. Salvador Jiménez, a journalist with RTVE who was aboard one of the trains, said the impact felt like an earthquake. Another passenger, José, recalled scenes filled with screams, cries for help, and desperate pleas for medical assistance.
Following the crash, all rail services between Madrid and the Andalusia region were temporarily suspended. Private operator Iryo confirmed that around 300 passengers were aboard the derailed train, while the other train, operated by Renfe, carried approximately 100 passengers.
Investigation Underway
The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation and authorities estimate that it may take up to one month to reach official conclusions.
Emergency medical posts have been set up to treat survivors, while the Andalusian Emergency Management Agency has urged victims to inform family members of their condition, including through social media channels. The Spanish Red Cross has deployed psychological support teams to assist victims’ families in several major cities.
This catastrophe is now considered one of the deadliest railway accidents in modern Spanish transport history, leaving profound grief for the victims’ families and drawing international attention to rail safety concerns.
Author: Faisal / FKY
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