In brief
A malfunction in the lift system led to a sudden drop of chairs, injuring several skiers, with two in critical condition.
A chairlift accident at the Astún ski resort in the Spanish Pyrenees has resulted in 10 injuries, including two women who are currently in intensive care. The incident, which prompted the immediate closure of the resort, was reportedly caused by a pulley failure that led to the cable losing tension, causing chairs to plummet to the ground and throwing depending skiers into the snow below. Initial reports indicated as many as 30 individuals sustained injuries but were later revised, with local media confirming that 17 required medical assistance. Emergency services responded quickly, deploying ambulances and helicopters to transport the injured to hospitals. Both 18-year-old women, who are in critical condition, remain under close supervision, as reported by El Pais.State broadcaster TVE has mentioned that a pulley malfunction at one end of the chairlift resulted in the collapse of crucial supporting structures, exacerbating the situation. Eyewitness Jaime Pelegri shared his harrowing experience with the BBC, describing the moments leading up to the drop as "very scary, but very fast." He noted the prompt arrival of rescue teams within 15 minutes, which likely helped in mitigating further injuries.In a social media post, Pelegri reassured others that though he was safe, several stretchers were observed being carried down to assist those hurt. Images circulated online showing one of the chairlift's flywheels dislodged from its upright position, although the precise cause of the malfunction remains under investigation. In a show of support, Regional President Jorge Azcón and Spain's Minister of the Interior, Roberto Bermúdez de Castro, arrived at the site shortly after the incident to oversee the rescue efforts. Azcón noted in a post on X that all relevant government services are mobilizing to assist those affected. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his concern, speaking with Azcón to ensure full governmental support and announced a dedicated telephone line for families seeking information regarding their loved ones impacted by the incident.The Astún resort is regarded as a favorite among local skiers and is situated in the Aragon region of the Pyrenees mountains, close to the French border.
