LISBON, Portugal (AP) — The death toll from a streetcar derailment in Lisbon rose to 17 on Thursday after two individuals succumbed to their injuries in the hospital, according to emergency services.
All deceased were adults, as confirmed by Margarida Castro Martins, head of Lisbon’s Civil Protection Agency, who did not disclose their identities pending family notifications. Another 21 individuals, aged between 3 and 65, sustained injuries, including Portuguese citizens and several foreign nationals.
The crash involved the Elevador da Gloria, a historic streetcar popular with tourists, which derailed and collided with a building. Witnesses described the incident as a “horrendous crash” just before 6 p.m. local time, leading to a rapid emergency response.
Service on the Elevador da Gloria and three other funiculars has been suspended for inspections. Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the derailment, with investigations ongoing. The National Forensics Institute has initiated autopsies for the victims.
Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas declared a national day of mourning and called the incident a profound tragedy. The European Union flags in Brussels are flying at half-staff in remembrance of the victims.