Passenger Train Hits Crane Near Cartagena, Several Injured
A passenger train slammed into a crane near Alumbres, Cartagena, leaving at least four people injured. One victim is reported seriously hurt, broadcaster TVE confirms. There were 15 passengers on board at the time of the crash.
Spanish rail operator Adif halted rail traffic after the crane, carrying out unrelated maintenance work, encroached on the rail line clearance, smashing a train window. The crane was not part of any railway operation.
Spain Shaken by Third Train Crash in Days
This is Spain’s third train disaster in just a matter of days, rattling the nation’s nerves after two previous deadly incidents.
- Sunday: A high-speed train from Málaga to Madrid derailed and collided with a train bound for Huelva. The horrific crash killed 42 people, with passengers reportedly thrown through windows. The impact sent the trains more than 1,500ft apart.
- Two days later near Barcelona: Another crash killed the train driver and injured 37 passengers. Rescuers struggled to free trapped crew members amid the wreckage.
Emergency Teams Rush to Scene as Investigations Get Underway
Authorities are probing today’s crash near Cartagena. Thankfully, the train did not derail. Emergency crews remain on site, treating the injured and securing the area.
Meanwhile, Catalonia’s civil protection agency revealed the Barcelona crash was caused by a retaining wall collapsing onto the tracks.
Spain’s series of rail disasters has triggered urgent calls for tougher safety measures and better infrastructure inspections to prevent further tragedies.