Deadly Train Collision In Southern Spain Leaves 21 Dead, Dozens Injured

At least 21 people were confirmed dead and more than 70 others injured after two high-speed trains collided near the city of Córdoba in southern Spain on Sunday evening, Spanish authorities said.

Thirty of the injured remain in critical condition and are receiving hospital treatment, according to Transport Minister Oscar Puente.

The accident occurred around 7:45 PM local time near Adamuz, approximately 20 kilometres from Córdoba.

A Malaga–Madrid high-speed train carrying 317 passengers derailed for unknown reasons and struck another high-speed train travelling on the adjacent Madrid–Huelva route, forcing both trains off the tracks.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as a night of ‘deep pain’ for the country.

Hoy es una noche de profundo dolor para nuestro país por el trágico accidente ferroviario en Adamuz.

Quiero expresar mis más sinceras condolencias a las familias y seres queridos de las víctimas.

Ninguna palabra puede aliviar un sufrimiento tan grande, pero quiero que sepan que…

— Pedro Sánchez (@sanchezcastejon) January 18, 2026

Spain’s royal family also extended condolences to the families of the victims.

Transport Minister Puente called the collision ‘terrible’, explaining that the last two wagons of the Malaga–Madrid train derailed and hit the first two carriages of the oncoming train with significant force.

Emergency services from the Andalusia region rushed to the site, while local residents assisted in moving passengers with minor injuries to a nearby sports centre for first aid.

Spain’s Military Emergency Unit also deployed teams to support rescue and recovery efforts, which continued late into the night.

Authorities warned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations progress. Rail services on the affected routes will remain suspended until at least Tuesday.

Rail infrastructure operator Adif has opened information centres at stations in Madrid, Malaga and Huelva and set up a dedicated helpline for relatives of passengers.

Spain’s deadliest rail disaster occurred in July 2013, when 79 people died in a high-speed train derailment near Santiago de Compostela.

Also Read: Europe Vows Coordinated Action Against US Tariffs Targeting Greenland Allies