A tragic high-speed train collision in southern Spain has claimed the lives of at least 39 people and left more than 120 injured, authorities confirmed on Monday.

The accident, described as Spain’s deadliest train disaster in over a decade, occurred on Sunday evening near Adamuz when a train traveling from Malaga to Madrid derailed and collided with an oncoming service.

Transport Minister Oscar Puente described the crash as “extremely strange,” noting that the derailment happened on a straight, fully renovated section of track, and that the first train involved was almost new.

The minister also cautioned that the death toll may rise as rescue and recovery operations continue under challenging conditions.

Rescue teams faced immense difficulties amid twisted carriages and overturned coaches, some tumbling down a four-meter embankment.

Firefighter Francisco Carmona described the work as “hard, tricky,” with teams carefully removing victims to reach survivors.

Survivors recounted harrowing experiences, describing sudden jolts, darkness, and chaos inside the derailed trains.

The accident has deeply shaken the nation. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called it a “night of deep pain,” while Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families affected.

International leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, also offered support.

As Spain mourns this tragedy, the focus remains on saving lives, supporting the injured, and bringing comfort to the grieving families.