64 dead in collision between an AVE and an Iryo train in Urda: tragedy leaves Madrid–Andalusia line closed

At least 64 people have died in a railway accident in Urda, in the province of Toledo, this Wednesday. Two high-speed trains travelling between Madrid and Seville collided: a Renfe AVE and an Iryo train.

The accident happened early in the morning, at around 8.54 am, at kilometre 118 of the Madrid–Andalusia line, between Urda and Los Yébenes. According to initial reports, the Iryo train was stationary on the track when it was hit from behind by the Renfe train.

The impact caused several carriages to derail, with at least two falling down an embankment. In addition to those killed, dozens of people have been injured, some seriously, as medical teams continue to treat and transport those affected.

Transport Minister Óscar Puente said that the line’s main LZB signalling system had failed before the accident. During that period, train movements were managed using an alternative system. The exact causes of the accident are still under investigation, and the authorities have urged caution until communications, signalling and all the circumstances of the collision have been examined.

Castilla-La Mancha has raised its Territorial Emergency Plan (PLATECAM) to Operational Situation 2. The Guardia Civil, firefighters, medical staff, Protección Civil, Cruz Roja, forensic teams and the Military Emergency Unit are working at the scene, with more than 200 personnel deployed.

High-speed rail services between Madrid and Andalusia remain suspended, with no expected date for their resumption. Renfe and Iryo have activated their assistance protocols for victims and their families, as well as changes and cancellations for affected passengers.

Helplines

Renfe: 900 10 10 20

Iryo: 900 001 403

Castilla-La Mancha emergencies: 900 122 112

La Gaceta de Guardamar will update this report as the authorities confirm further information.