Two High-Speed Trains Collide in Spain: Death Toll Rises to 69
A major railway disaster has struck Spain. On the morning of October 28, two high-speed passenger trains collided south of Madrid. As of October 29, at least 69 people have been killed, while dozens of injured passengers remain in hospital.
The accident occurred near the town of Urda in Toledo province. A high-speed train operated by state-owned Renfe crashed into a stationary train belonging to private operator Iryo. The crash sent a number of carriages off the tracks, some falling down an embankment. Rescue teams continue searching through the wreckage.
What Caused the Train Collision?
According to preliminary reports, the collision was preceded by a malfunction in the railway safety system. Several trains were automatically brought to a halt, but the control centre subsequently allowed the Renfe train to resume its journey at normal speed.
The decision was made to resume service even though another train remained stationary and the signal at the entrance to Urda station was red
Puente also described the circumstances surrounding the decision as "inexplicable." Investigators are examining why controllers authorised the train to proceed despite the red signal. The final cause of the disaster has not yet been established.
This is Spain's second major railway disaster in nine months. In January 2026, two trains collided near Adamuz, killing 46 people. The latest tragedy has again raised fears over the safety of Spain’s high-speed rail network.
Which Trains Are Cancelled and What Should Passengers Do?
As of October 29, high-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalusia remain suspended indefinitely.
- Renfe: High-speed services between Madrid and Andalusia have been cancelled, including connections linking Seville and Málaga with Barcelona and Valencia.
- Iryo: Services from Madrid towards southern Spain have been cancelled. No date has been announced for the resumption of operations.
- OUIGO: All services between Madrid and Andalusia are cancelled until at least November 2, inclusive.
- Alternative routes: Renfe has arranged additional conventional rail services between Madrid, Ciudad Real and Puertollano. Journey times are approximately 90 minutes longer. From October 30, the operator plans to offer alternative connections between Madrid and Andalusia.
- Operating routes: According to Adif, high-speed services between Madrid and Toledo, and between Málaga and Seville, remain operational.
Passengers affected by Renfe and Iryo cancellations can change or cancel their bookings free of charge. OUIGO guarantees a full refund for cancelled services, with affected passengers being notified by email.
Additional disruptions on October 29 are linked to a strike by Renfe train drivers. Travellers are advised to check the status of their specific service directly with the operator before departure.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has promised a comprehensive investigation into the disaster.
