A devastating train collision near Urda in central Spain has resulted in 69 confirmed deaths, with over 100 people sustaining injuries, many of whom remain in serious condition. Watch: What leaked audio reveals about Spain train crash.
The accident occurred on Wednesday morning when a high-speed Renfe train collided with a stationary Iryo service on the same line. The force of the impact caused multiple carriages to derail, triggering a significant emergency response. As families search for missing relatives across regional hospitals, authorities are working to identify the victims at a forensic facility in Toledo, where DNA samples are currently being collected. Where families have been giving DNA samples to help identify them, the bodies of those killed have been taken to the main forensics institute in Toledo.
This incident represents the deadliest rail disaster in Spain since 2013 and marks the second major rail catastrophe in the country this year.
Among those confirmed deceased are prominent figures, including former employment minister Fátima Báñez, 59.
Having served under former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy from 2011 to 2018, Báñez was the first woman to hold that portfolio.
The Spanish Confederation of Business Organizations (CEOE), which she chaired, remembered her for her warmth and generosity. According to her warmth, generosity, and commitment leave an indelible mark on businesses and the entire CEOE team,” it, In a statement.
Madrid regional president Isabel Díaz Ayuso paid tribute to her as a significant political figure who would be deeply missed.
The sports community is also mourning the loss of 24-year-old long jumper Julieta Gallego, an athlete who competed for the Madrid club AD Sprint. The Royal Spanish Athletics Federation announced her passing, with president Raúl Chapado describing the loss as a blow that strikes at the heart of the athletics family. Colleagues at her club shared their grief on social media, noting that a young life with a promising future had been unjustly extinguished. Gallego, who recorded a personal best jump of 5.9 meters, was a regular participant in regional club championships. The entire club is heartbroken,” it wrote on Instagram. Local media outlet ABC reported, external, and had a best jump of 5.9m (19ft 3in), gallego regularly competed in Spanish club championships.
Other victims include 31-year-old Civil Guard officer José Manuel Chacón, whose death was confirmed by his department with expressions of deepest condolences to his family and colleagues. Additionally, tax authority officials confirmed the death of Antonio Montero Domínguez, a finance and tax lawyer who had served as an inspector from 2012 to 2016. He was noted for his meticulous professional work and dedicated career. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash as the nation remains in a state of mourning. In 2012, she introduced controversial labour reforms that made it easier for companies to fire people, sparking mass protests across the country. Additional reporting by Sarah Rainsford, Madeleine Lake and Tom McArthur.
