Pope Leo XIV Offers Prayers Following Deadly Train Collision in Spain which Left 40 Dead and Many Injured
Pope Leo XIV Offers Prayers Following Deadly Train Collision in Spain
VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has expressed his deep sorrow and "heartfelt condolences" following a devastating train collision in southern Spain that claimed the lives of at least 39 people.
A Message of Solace
In a telegram sent on Monday and signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, the Holy Father conveyed his "deep concern" for the victims and their families. The Pope offered a message of spiritual closeness to those grieving, wishing a "speedy recovery" to the dozens currently hospitalized.
The message also included:
Encouragement for First Responders: A call for rescue teams to persevere in their ongoing relief efforts.
Apostolic Blessing: Invoking the intercession of Our Lady of the Pillar, the Pope imparted a blessing as a "sign of hope in the Risen Lord."
Details of the Accident
The tragedy occurred on Sunday evening, January 18, near Adamuz. A train bound for Madrid derailed, veering into the path of an oncoming train.
The Impact by the Numbers: | Confirmed Fatalities | 40 (Number expected to rise) | | Total Passengers | ~400 people across both trains | | Injuries Treated | 122 people | | Still Hospitalized | 48 people |
While emergency services continue to work at the site, Spanish authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the derailment, which remains unknown.
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