Spain's train derailment toll reaches 40 as investigators probe cause

Officials say a derailment and collision near Adamuz in Cordoba has left 40 people dead and dozens injured; the Rail Accident Investigation Commission is leading a probe and reported broken rail while crews prepare to remove derailed cars.

A train derailment and subsequent collision occurred Sunday night near Adamuz in Cordoba province, southern Spain. Authorities have reported 40 deaths and many injured people remain hospitalized. A private Iryo train derailed and struck a Renfe train traveling the opposite direction. Investigators are working to determine the cause while recovery crews prepare to remove derailed cars. Known details: - The reported death toll is 40 and officials have said the count may still change. - The incident took place Sunday night near Adamuz; an Iryo train derailed and collided with a Renfe train traveling in the opposite direction. - Forty-one patients remain hospitalized, with 13 in intensive care; 122 people received medical treatment and 81 have been discharged. - The Rail Accident Investigation Commission (CIAF) is leading the investigation; authorities reported breaks in the rail and have said human error has been ruled out. Summary: The incident has resulted in reported fatalities, ongoing hospital care for the injured, and a government declaration of three days of mourning. Investigators led by CIAF have reported broken rail as part of their inquiry while recovery crews plan to use cranes to remove derailed cars. The investigation and recovery work are continuing to establish what happened and why.