Rescue teams are working after a high-speed train derailed in southern Spain, crossed into the opposite track and collided with an oncoming service. Authorities say more than 20 people may have died, though earlier reports put the immediate death toll at 10. Seventy-three injured passengers were taken to six hospitals and 25 people were reported as severely injured. ADIF suspended Madrid–Andalusia services while investigators probe the cause.
More Than 20 Feared Dead After High-Speed Train Derails and Collides in Southern Spain
Passengers wait in the hall of Madrid train station on Sunday, January 18, 2026, following the announcement of the suspension of service due to an accident in which two trains derailed in Cordoba. ( Carlos Luján/Europa Press via AP)(ASSOCIATED PRESS)
MADRID — Authorities say more than 20 people may have died after a high-speed train derailed in southern Spain and struck an oncoming service, a regional official told reporters Sunday as rescue teams continued recovery efforts.
What happened: The evening AVE service from Málaga to Madrid reportedly jumped the tracks, crossed into the opposite line and collided with a train running from Madrid toward Huelva. Initial on-scene reports put the immediate death toll at at least 10, but regional officials later warned the number could rise above 20 as recovery operations continue.
Casualties and response: Antonio Sanz, Andalusia's regional health minister, said rescue operations are ongoing and that 73 injured passengers have been taken to six hospitals. Regional emergency services reported 25 people with severe injuries. Two Guardia Civil officers confirmed reported fatalities to The Associated Press, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with police rules.
María Belén Moya Rojas, the region's Civil Protection chief, told Canal Sur the crash occurred in an area that is difficult to access, complicating rescue and recovery efforts. Local residents have been bringing blankets, water and other aid to help victims while emergency crews work at the scene.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on X she was following the "terrible news" from Córdoba and added, in Spanish, "Tonight you are in my thoughts."
Service disruption and investigation: ADIF, the Spanish rail infrastructure operator, announced that train services between Madrid and cities in Andalusia would be suspended on Monday. Authorities said investigators will examine what caused the derailment and how the train came to cross into the path of an oncoming service.
Note: These are early, evolving reports. Officials have cautioned that casualty figures and details may change as rescue teams finish recovery and authorities confirm identities.
Rescue teams remain at the site, working to reach and recover victims amid challenging access conditions. More details are expected as authorities and investigators complete their on-site work.
Help us improve.
