Spain High-Speed Train Collision Kills at Least 64 People

LONDON — At least 64 people died when two trains collided on Spain’s Madrid-Seville high-speed railway, and the death toll is expected to increase, a spokesperson for the Castilla-La Mancha region told ABC News.

The crash happened at approximately 8:30 a.m. local time near kilometer 118, close to the town of Urda. Spain’s Transport Ministry said the trains involved were a Renfe service and an Iryo service, both traveling from Madrid to Seville.

According to preliminary findings, the Renfe train may have struck the Iryo train from behind, sending two carriages off the tracks.

The Iryo train was carrying 146 passengers, including an infant, while 397 passengers were aboard the Renfe service, the Transport Ministry said.

Iryo said in a statement that its Madrid-to-Seville service 6076 was involved in the collision near Urda. The operator said it had activated its emergency response procedures and was coordinating with officials as they dealt with the aftermath.

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The crash prompted the cancellation of all Iryo trains leaving Madrid-Puerta de Atocha and traveling along the Southern Corridor. The company said it could not yet say when those services would resume.

Health Minister Monica Garcia said the Spanish government was deploying available resources and working with the institutions involved in the emergency response.

“We are making every available resource available and coordinating with all the relevant institutions,” Garcia said. “I am working with the regional government of Castilla-La Mancha to provide whatever support it requires. My full support and gratitude go to the emergency personnel sent to the scene.”

This is a developing story. Check back for additional updates.