Rescue and Recovery Operations Intensify Following Adamuz Train Derailment
Rescue teams continue technical efforts to lift derailed train cars and recover victims after the deadly Adamuz train accident, with investigations underway to determine causes.
- • Two high-speed trains derailed in Adamuz on January 18, causing at least 39 deaths and many injuries.
- • Firefighters and technicians are actively working to lift the derailed Alvia train cars.
- • The Junta de Andalucía announced an official investigation into the causes of the accident.
- • Identification of victims is centralized at the Institute of Legal Medicine of Córdoba.
Key details
On January 18, 2026, a catastrophic incident struck the town of Adamuz in Córdoba when two high-speed trains derailed in a collision that resulted in at least 39 deaths and numerous injuries. The crash involved the LD AV Iryo 6189 train from Málaga and the Alvia 2384 travelling from Madrid Puerta de Atocha to Huelva. The derailment occurred at 7:45 PM when the Iryo train overshot the entry points of track 1, invading the adjacent track and causing the Alvia train to derail as well.
In response to this tragedy, immediate rescue and recovery efforts were mobilized. Firefighters and technicians have been diligently working to lift the two derailed cars of the Alvia train, employing technical expertise to manage the difficult operation safely. These operations are a critical part of the ongoing efforts to recover and clear the site, enabling investigations and support for survivors and victims' families.
Juan Manuel Moreno, President of the Junta de Andalucía, has announced that the Commission for Railway Accident Investigation will take charge of determining the causes behind the accident. Meanwhile, the identification of the deceased is being centralized at the Institute of Legal Medicine of Córdoba to assist in providing clear information to relatives.
Authorities and emergency responders received public accolades for their rapid and professional action during the crisis. Statements of condolences and support have been extended to the families of victims and survivors, emphasizing the community’s solidarity in this hour of grief. Safety and health professionals have also stressed the urgent need for continual improvements in prevention and emergency protocols to avoid future tragedies.
The community and emergency teams remain focused on the complex recovery mission, underscoring the resolve to honor the victims and provide assistance to those affected by this devastating event.
This article was translated and synthesized from Spanish sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
Source articles (2)
Source comparison
Date of the accident
Sources report different dates for the train accident
ondacero.es
"the tragic railway accident that occurred in Adamuz, highlighting the ongoing efforts by firefighters and technicians to lift the two derailed cars of the Alvia train on January 20, 2026."
juntadeandalucia.es
"On January 18, two high-speed trains derailed in Adamuz, Córdoba, resulting in at least 39 fatalities and numerous injuries."
Why this matters: One source states the accident occurred on January 18, 2026, while another source mentions it on January 20, 2026. This discrepancy affects the timeline and understanding of the incident's reporting.