Rescue Efforts Intensify After Deadly Córdoba Train Crash
Emergency teams continue their critical response following the deadly high-speed train collision in Adamuz, Córdoba, with investigations underway and widespread support mobilized.
- • At least 21 confirmed deaths and over 100 injured after two high-speed trains collided in Adamuz, Córdoba.
- • Rescue operations involved medical teams, firefighters, Civil Guard, and military personnel, with hospitals in multiple cities mobilized.
- • High-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalucía suspended; investigations into the cause ongoing.
- • Government officials and international leaders expressed solidarity and coordinated emergency responses.
Key details
On January 18, 2026, a catastrophic train derailment in Adamuz, Córdoba, unfolded when an Iryo high-speed train traveling from Málaga to Madrid derailed and collided with a Renfe Alvia train en route from Madrid to Huelva. This tragic accident resulted in at least 21 confirmed fatalities, including one train driver, and over 100 injuries, with about 25 critically injured.
The collision occurred around 7:40 PM when the Iryo train invaded the adjacent track, leading to a violent impact that severely damaged multiple carriages. In total, 504 passengers were aboard both trains—317 on the Iryo and 187 on the Renfe. Emergency services swiftly mobilized, setting up an advanced medical aid post in Adamuz. Hospitals across Córdoba, Sevilla, Málaga, and Madrid were alerted and prepared to receive the wounded.
Rescue operations involved firefighters, medical teams, the Civil Guard, and nearly 40 military personnel working tirelessly to evacuate the injured and assist those trapped in the wreckage. Officials confirmed that all hospitalized victims were accounted for, although the situation remained chaotic as emergency crews continued their efforts.
The incident prompted an immediate suspension of high-speed train services between Madrid and Andalucía by ADIF, while Renfe rerouted or canceled affected services as technical teams began assessing the damage. Support hotlines were also established by ADIF and Iryo, and emotional support spaces opened in several cities to assist families affected by the disaster.
Officials, including Transport Minister Óscar Puente and Andalusian Health Minister Antonio Sanz, provided regular updates and coordinated the response. Puente described the accident as "strange," highlighting that the Iryo train was relatively new and that investment in track infrastructure had been significant. While the cause is still under investigation, speculation has included a potential "rod failure." The Prime Minister and regional authorities have expressed their shock and solidarity.
International condolences have arrived, including messages from French President Emmanuel Macron and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, underscoring the tragedy's impact across Europe. Comparisons have been drawn to the 2013 Santiago de Compostela disaster, noting this as one of the worst railway accidents in recent Spanish history.
As emergency teams finalize rescue efforts, investigations into the exact cause continue amid ongoing support for the victims and their families.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
