29 October 2026A high-speed train struck a stopped train south of Madrid, and officials say a safety system had failed.
Featured image: A Spanish AVE high-speed train. Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Key facts
- At least 68 people died and dozens were injured.
- Transport Minister Oscar Puente said a safety system failed.
- The control centre ordered trains to resume without the system working.
- It was Spain’s second deadly high-speed collision this year.
- Two Australians were reported unaccounted for on 31 October.
The collision
A high-speed train collided with another train that had stopped on the tracks ahead, south of Madrid. Transport Minister Oscar Puente confirmed 68 deaths, and dozens of people were injured. Some later reports gave a toll of at least 69.
Official response
Puente said a safety system failed and that the control centre ordered trains to resume without it working, a decision he called inexplicable. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez promised a full investigation. It was Spain’s second deadly high-speed collision this year, coming nine months after a crash in January.
Australians affected
On 31 October a DFAT spokesperson said Australian officials were working with Spanish authorities to determine the welfare of two Australians and were providing consular assistance to their family. Relatives of those affected gathered in Toledo.
Political context
SBS reported that the crash raised concerns about rail safety ahead of Spain’s national election, which is due next month.
