The collision, involving trains carrying hundreds of passengers, has prompted immediate response efforts. The Spanish Red Cross has established a support center in the town of Adamuz, located near the crash scene. This center is providing essential support to emergency services and offering information to those seeking updates about their loved ones.

Antonio Sanz, Andalusia’s regional health chief, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, remarking, “We have a very difficult night ahead.” His words reflect the challenge faced by emergency responders as they work tirelessly through the night.

Iryo issued a statement saying it “deeply lamented what has happened” and it was working with authorities to manage the situation.

‘Like a horror movie’

When asked by reporters how long an inquiry into the crash’s cause could take, he said it could be a month.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday said Spain was enduring a “night of deep pain” after the train accident. Source: EPA / Salas

Salvador Jimenez, a journalist for Spanish broadcaster RTVE, was on board one of the derailed trains and told the network by phone that “there was a moment when it felt like an earthquake and the train had indeed derailed”.