LISBON STREETCAR CRASH KILLS 17, INJURES 23
The death toll from the crash of a famous streetcar in Lisbon has risen to 17, with two of the 23 injured succumbing to their injuries, authorities confirmed Thursday.
All deceased were adults, as stated by Margarida Castro Martins, head of Lisbon’s Civil Protection Agency. Their names and nationalities have not been disclosed pending family notifications.
Among the injured are Portuguese citizens and visitors from Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Canada, Morocco, South Korea, and Cape Verde. The incident occurred Wednesday during the evening rush hour.
Portugal is observing a national day of mourning following this tragic event, deemed the capital’s worst disaster in recent history. The transport workers’ trade union reported that the streetcar’s brakeman, André Marques, is among the deceased.
The historic Elevador da Gloria, a key tourist attraction, was derailed when it crashed into a building, damaging its structure significantly. Witnesses described the vehicle as out of control and lacking brakes.
Emergency responders worked for over two hours to extract all victims from the wreckage. Investigators from Portugal’s judicial police photographed the scene as they began examining potential causes, including brake failure.
Lisbon’s City Council has halted operations of three other funicular streetcars while inspections are conducted. The Elevador da Gloria has been in operation since 1885 and is classified as a national monument.
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas expressed condolences, calling the event a tragedy that shocked the nation. The Portuguese government announced a day of national mourning as European Union flags were lowered in tribute.