Tragic High-Speed Train Collision in Spain Claims 39 Lives

Mon Jan 19 2026 17:41:12 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A catastrophic train crash near Córdoba, Spain, resulted in the death of at least 39 people and injured many others, marking one of the worst rail disasters in over a decade.

The collision occurred as two high-speed trains collided resulting in significant fatalities and injuries. An investigation into the cause of the accident has begun, with officials noting the unusual nature of the derailment. Emergency services are still assessing the situation to rescue potential survivors and treat the injured.

At least 39 people have died and dozens more have been injured after two high-speed trains collided in southern Spain, the country's Civil Guard has said.

The accident near the city of Córdoba has been described by local officials as Spain's worst rail crash in more than a decade.

The crash occurred at around 7:45 PM local time on Sunday, about an hour after one of the trains departed Málaga for Madrid. One train derailed and crossed over to the opposite track, colliding with an oncoming train heading from Madrid to Huelva. Most casualties were reported from the front carriages of the Huelva-bound train.

The causes of the derailment remain unclear, with an investigation underway, although results may take up to a month. Spain’s Transport Minister Óscar Puente labeled the situation 'extremely strange', expressing that experts are baffled by the accident.

Emergency services reported that around 400 passengers and staff were on board the two trains. Rescue teams are on-site; however, the twisted metal of the carriages complicates efforts to ascertain if anyone is still trapped inside.

As investigations unfold, the identity of the 39 victims has not yet been confirmed. Currently, 112 people have received medical assistance, with 48 remaining hospitalized, including several individuals in intensive care.