Spain Train Accident: High-speed trains collide after one derails in southern Spain, killing at least 21 

The crash happened about 10 minutes after the Málaga-to-Madrid service left at 6.40pm local time (17.40 GMT), Adif said. Rail services between Madrid and Andalucía were suspended following the accident.

Andalusian emergency services said at least 25 people were seriously injured, with others suffering minor injuries. Spanish media, citing officials, reported that around 100 people were hurt.

Iryo, the private rail company operating the Málaga-to-Madrid service, said about 300 passengers were on board. Reports suggested up to 400 people may have been travelling on the two trains combined.

A journalist travelling on one of the trains told Spain’s public broadcaster that the collision felt “like an earthquake”. He said some passengers used emergency hammers to break windows and leave the carriages.

Another passenger told public broadcaster RTVE that one carriage had overturned. Footage shared on social media showed emergency workers at the scene and passengers being told to remain in their seats until it was safe to evacuate.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a post on X that she was following “the terrible news” from Cordoba. “Tonight you are in my thoughts,” she wrote in Spanish.

Recibo las terribles noticias desde Córdoba.

Mi más sentido pésame a las familias y seres queridos de las víctimas del accidente ferroviario y al pueblo español.

Deseo una rápida y completa recuperación a los heridos.

Esta noche estáis en mis pensamientos.

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 18, 2026

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said the government was working with emergency services to help those affected. The regional president of Andalucía, Juanma Moreno, expressed support for the victims and their families. The president of the Madrid region, Isabel Díaz Ayuso, said hospitals in Madrid were available if needed.

(With inputs from agencies)