train accident : Deadly Spain Train Accident Near Córdoba: 21 Killed, Over 100 Injured in High-Speed Train Collision and Derailment
A catastrophic train accident shook southern Spain on the evening of January 18, 2026, when two high-speed trains collided head-on near the town of Adamuz in Córdoba province, resulting in at least 21 deaths and more than 100 injuries. This devastating train accident marks the deadliest incident on Spain’s high-speed rail network since the 2013 Santiago de Compostela derailment.
The tragedy unfolded around 7:45 p.m. local time (18:45 GMT) when an Iryo high-speed train traveling from Málaga to Madrid (train Iryo 6189) derailed shortly after departing Córdoba. The rear carriages (reportedly wagons 6 to 8) veered off the tracks and crossed onto the adjacent line. Moments later, it smashed into an oncoming Alvia train (operated by Renfe) heading from Madrid to Huelva, causing both trains to derail violently.
The impact was catastrophic: several carriages were mangled, twisted, and thrown off the tracks, with some falling down a 4-meter embankment. Witnesses and survivors described the moment as feeling like “an earthquake,” with violent shaking followed by chaos. The two trains carried a combined total of approximately 500 passengers — around 300 on the Málaga-Madrid Iryo service and about 200 on the Madrid-Huelva Alvia.
Rescue operations continued through the night, with Spain’s Military Emergency Unit (UME), fire brigades, Red Cross teams, local police, and national emergency services working under floodlights amid low temperatures. Firefighters reported twisted metal trapping victims, with crews sometimes having to remove deceased individuals to reach the living. At least 73 people were hospitalized, including 24-30 in serious or critical condition, with some reports noting four minors among the gravely injured. Many others received treatment for minor injuries at a makeshift center in Adamuz’s municipal hall, where locals provided blankets, food, and support.
Spanish authorities, including rail operator Adif, confirmed the sequence: the initial derailment on a straight, recently renovated section of track (upgraded in May of the previous year) led to the invasion of the opposite line. Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the incident as “extremely strange” and “really strange,” emphasizing that the line was straight and well-maintained, with no immediate explanation for the derailment. A full investigation has been launched to determine the root cause, which remains unknown.
In the aftermath, all high-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalusia — including routes to Córdoba, Seville, Málaga, Huelva, and beyond — were suspended indefinitely. Adif announced cancellations at least through January 19, 2026, with likely extensions. Passengers affected can change tickets or claim refunds, while alternative transport options, including buses, were arranged from major stations like Madrid’s Puerta de Atocha.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed profound grief, calling it “a night of deep pain for our country” and offering sincere condolences to the victims’ families. “No word can alleviate such great suffering, but the whole country is by their side,” he posted on social media. King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, and international figures, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, also conveyed solidarity and shock.
This train accident has raised serious questions about high-speed rail safety in Spain, one of Europe’s most advanced networks. The collision highlights the devastating potential of derailments on busy double-track lines, even on modern infrastructure. Experts and officials continue to monitor the situation as the death toll could rise with ongoing searches through the wreckage.
As Spain mourns this tragedy, the focus remains on supporting the injured, grieving families, and uncovering the facts behind this heartbreaking train accident. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this devastating event in Córdoba province. Stay tuned for updates as the investigation progresses.
