Audio recordings reveal decisions before deadly train crash in Spain

Newly published audio recordings obtained by Spanish media shed light on the communications between train operators and a control center in Madrid before a deadly high-speed train collision in Spain on Wednesday. The crash, which occurred near the train station in Urda, resulted in at least 69 deaths and injured dozens more, while Spanish officials reported that 67 passengers remained missing as of Thursday.

Timeline and Control Center Communications

According to Spanish Transportation Minister Óscar Puente, a computer malfunction caused a security system to fail, halting multiple trains at around 8:30 a.m. local time on Wednesday. Rail traffic was subsequently managed by the control center in Madrid.

• 8:36 a.m.: The control center authorized a state-owned Renfe high-speed train to resume its journey at normal speed, despite a stationary Iryo train being stopped on the tracks ahead. Minister Puente stated that this decision broke protocol.
• Subsequent Calls: Audio clips indicate the Iryo train operator later reported being unable to restart the stopped train at the entrance signal. Minutes later, the Renfe train collided with the rear of the Iryo train.

Casualties and Emergency Response

Emergency workers, firefighters, police officers, and soldiers responded to the scene to rescue survivors and recover bodies. Spain declared three days of mourning following the disaster.

• Political figures and parties confirmed the deaths of specific individuals, including former minister Fátima Báñez and train driver Antonio Acedo.
• Passengers recounted scenes of severe impact, panic, and subsequent evacuation efforts aided by arriving paramedics and police.

Verification and Ongoing Investigation

NBC News has not independently verified the authenticity of the audio recordings. The incident remains under scrutiny as authorities investigate the operational failures and decisions that led to the collision.