Tragic Collision: High-Speed Train Crash Claims 39 Lives in Southern Spain

Mon Jan 19 2026 17:49:18 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A devastating high-speed train collision in southern Spain results in at least 39 fatalities and numerous injuries, marking one of the worst rail disasters in the country in over a decade. Investigations into the cause of the derailment are underway.

At least 39 people have lost their lives and many more have been injured after two high-speed trains collided near Córdoba, Spain, in what has been described as the country's worst rail disaster in years. The collision occurred when one of the trains derailed and crashed into an oncoming train shortly after departing from Málaga. The cause remains under investigation, with officials expressing confusion regarding the incident.

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 reported.

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

The crash occurred at around 19:45 local time (18:45 GMT) on Sunday, about an hour after one of the trains departed Málaga for Madrid. The train derailed and crossed over to the opposite track, colliding with an oncoming train traveling from Madrid to Huelva.

Preliminary reports suggest that the majority of deaths and injuries were concentrated in the front carriages of the train bound for Huelva.

The exact cause of the derailment remains unknown, and an investigation has been launched. Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the event as extremely strange, indicating confusion among railway experts.

Rescue operations involving approximately 400 passengers and staff from both trains are ongoing. There is uncertainty regarding whether people are trapped inside the twisted wreckage as rescue teams continue to assess the situation.

The victims have not yet been identified, but initial reports indicate that among the injured, 48 individuals remain hospitalized, including several in intensive care.