Renfe train strikes stationary Iryo service, killing at least 30

At least 30 people have died after a high-speed Renfe train collided with a stationary Iryo train just south of Madrid on Wednesday morning. The impact occurred shortly after 09:00 local time, sending at least two carriages down an embankment. Authorities expect the casualty count to rise as rescue efforts continue.

The accident took place between the municipalities of Mora and Orgaz, approximately 140 kilometers south of the capital. A Renfe train traveling from Madrid toward the south struck an Iryo train that had stopped on the tracks. RTVE, citing the transport ministry, confirmed that the Renfe vehicle rear-ended the Iryo service. More than 500 passengers were on board the two trains combined. Esther Padilla, a spokesperson for the Castilla-La Mancha regional government, stated that the Iryo train carried 146 passengers and one baby. The Renfe train had 397 passengers.

Emiliano García-Page, the president of Castilla-La Mancha, confirmed the death toll of at least 30 in comments to Spanish media. He warned that the number of fatalities could increase. A passenger on one of the trains told local media that a heavy impact occurred about 40 minutes into the journey. Rail operator Adif has suspended all traffic on the line. Renfe services between Madrid, Ciudad Real, and Andalusia remain halted.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the accident as serious and stated he was in constant contact with the Minister of Transport and the regional president. Sánchez said emergency services were working on the ground to assist those affected. He added, "My affection, solidarity, and support to all the victims and their families." Spanish politicians have canceled all public engagements for the day, including campaign stops for next month's parliamentary elections. The Spanish royal family posted on X that they were shocked and concerned by the crash.

A large-scale emergency response is underway, with fire crews and helicopters at the scene. Hospitals in Toledo, Ciudad Real, and Alcázar de San Juan have canceled planned surgeries to handle the influx of patients. A blood transfusion center in Madrid appealed for urgent donations, citing a possible sudden increase in care needs. The EU spokesperson said the bloc was ready to assist Spain if required.

This is the second high-speed rail tragedy in Spain this year. In January, a high-speed train derailed in the south, with its rear carriages entering the path of a Renfe train. That incident claimed 46 lives.