MADRID, Spain — A serious rail accident in southern Spain has resulted in significant loss of life and many injuries after two high-speed passenger trains collided near the town of Adamuz in the province of Córdoba. Emergency responders continue rescue and recovery operations at the scene. 

The incident occurred on Sunday evening at approximately 7:45 p.m. local time on a section of the high-speed rail line connecting Malaga and Madrid. According to authorities, one train’s rear carriages left the track and entered the adjacent line, where it was struck by another train traveling in the opposite direction. The force of the collision caused at least some of the carriages from the impacted train to derail and fall down an embankment. 

Police and regional officials have confirmed that at least 39 people have died as a result of the crash, and the toll could increase as recovery efforts continue. Dozens of others were injured, with many taken to hospitals for treatment, and several reported to be in serious condition. 

The trains involved were a private high-speed service traveling from Málaga toward Madrid and a public service operated by Spain’s national rail company en route from Madrid to Huelva. Both services were carrying a significant number of passengers at the time of the accident. 

Rescue teams, including civil defense and medical personnel, worked through difficult conditions in a rural area to reach the wreckage and assist survivors. Temporary facilities have been established to support emergency operations and provide information to families of passengers. 

Officials have described the accident as unusual due to its occurrence on a section of straight, recently renewed track. Investigators have not yet determined a cause, and transport authorities have indicated that the collision remains under review as they examine mechanical and infrastructure factors. 

In response to the disaster, rail services on the affected line have been suspended, and national authorities have mobilized additional resources to support the response in the affected region.