Trains collide near Urda, Toledo; at least 68 dead and former minister Báñez's fate unclear

Collision near Urda

Two high-speed trains collided minutes before 9.00 on 28 October on the line between Los Yébenes and Urda in Toledo province. Europa Press reports that an AVE train operated by Renfe struck an Iryo train travelling in the opposite direction. The AVE was heading from Madrid towards Seville, and rescue work was still under way in Urda when ABC reported in the afternoon. The latest Europa Press count puts the death toll at least 68, while an earlier report gave 64.

Fátima Báñez unaccounted for

Fátima Báñez, a former employment minister under Mariano Rajoy and president of the CEOE Foundation, was travelling on one of the trains to attend a Business Day event in Seville organised by the Confederación de Empresarios de Andalucía. El Debate reported in mid-morning that she had died at the age of 59, a claim the outlet said it could confirm. Her circle had not been able to reach her, and La Razón reported that the PP had confirmed she was among those missing. In an institutional statement that afternoon, Juanma Moreno said he still had no news of her and that the uncertainty hurt him in particular.

“I would be lying if I said this suffering, not knowing about her, hurts me especially, not only because we are friends and colleagues.”

The CEOE said on social media that it was consternated by the accident and expressed support for the victims, their families and those affected.

Political reaction

Moreno demanded transparency, rigour and truth from the Spanish government, which he said is responsible for the network, and called for a full review of rail lines in Andalusia. He cited at least 114 deaths on the same high-speed line in two accidents over nine months, and said Andalusia had declared three days of mourning. He also said the crash would have a strong and painful impact in Andalusia, as the Adamuz accident did.

“The AVE Madrid-Andalucía has stopped being a safe means of transport.”

Alberto Núñez Feijóo appeared at PP headquarters in Madrid and called for an immediate government inquiry and a judicial one, without interference. He said the party had cancelled its campaign events out of respect for the victims. Feijóo added that the public had a right to know the state of the tracks and which measures had been carried out since the Adamuz accident.

“Spain has the right to know what is happening with its infrastructure.”

Death toll and rescue

The reported toll rose during the day, from 64 in one report to at least 68 in the latest one. LaSexta reports that Renfe and Iryo set up telephone lines to assist affected people and their relatives. Rescue crews were still working in Urda into the afternoon. Moreno said the government must provide information that is clear, transparent and accurate while guaranteeing passenger safety.

Earlier report64

Latest report68

Earlier report

64 deaths

Latest report

68 deaths

Data from the article text