Train Crash in Córdoba Province: 39 Dead, Over 150 Injured
Train Crash in Córdoba Province: 39 Dead, Over 150 Injured
On the evening of January 18, 2026, one of the worst railway disasters in recent years occurred in Spain. Near the municipality of Adamuz in Córdoba province, two high-speed trains collided after derailing.
Train Iryo 6189, traveling from Málaga to Madrid (Puerta de Atocha), derailed around 19:45 local time (CET). The rear carriages intruded onto the adjacent track, where Renfe's Alvia 2384 train was traveling in the opposite direction from Madrid to Huelva. A powerful collision ensued, causing both trains to derail and sustain severe damage.
According to updated information from emergency services 112 Andalucía, Guardia Civil, Adif, and media as of the morning of January 19, the death toll has reached 39 people, including one of the drivers. More than 150 people were injured, including:
- Approximately 75 hospitalized,
- 48 remain in hospitals (sources vary between 48 and 75),
- 12–15 in serious condition, including in intensive care units (one child among them),
- Several minors injured (at least 4–5).
The Iryo train carried about 300–317 passengers, while Alvia had approximately 184 on board. The total number of people across both trains was close to 500.
Rescue operations continued throughout the night and into the morning of January 19. Emergency crews worked through wreckage searching for possible survivors and victims’ bodies. Renfe president Álvaro Fernández Heredia stated that “human error is practically ruled out,” while Transport Minister Óscar Puente described the circumstances as “tremendamente extraño” (extremely strange), as the incident occurred on a straight section of track fully renovated in May 2025.
As a result, Adif has completely suspended high-speed train services between Madrid and Andalusia (including Córdoba, Seville, Málaga, Granada, Cádiz, Huelva, and Algeciras). Over 130 services have been canceled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Restoration of service will take at least several days.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims, calling the event “a night of profound sorrow for the entire country.” He canceled his trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos and plans to visit the site on January 19. The Royal Family is also scheduled to arrive in Córdoba on Tuesday.
A hotline has been opened for victims' relatives and the injured: 900 101 020.
The investigation into the cause of the crash has just begun. Experts, including representatives from the Railway Accident Investigation Commission, are on site. Initial theories include possible technical failures, but definitive conclusions will come later.
Our editorial team extends sincere condolences to all affected by this tragedy. We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates.