Disconnected Cable Causes Fatal Lisbon Streetcar Crash, 16 Dead

UPDATE: A tragic streetcar crash in Lisbon, Portugal, has claimed the lives of 16 people, including two Canadians, just hours ago. The incident occurred on October 25, 2023, when two cabins of the funicular lost stability due to a disconnected cable, leading to a catastrophic derailment.

According to a preliminary report from the Portuguese government’s office for air and rail accident investigations, the cabins had traveled no more than six meters when they suddenly lost the balancing force. As the first cabin accelerated uncontrollably, efforts by the brakeman to stop it proved futile.

Authorities confirm that the second cabin spun around and rolled left, ultimately crashing into a building wall. Among the deceased are Andre Bergeron and Blandine Daux, a couple from Quebec who worked as archaeologists for the province’s Culture Department. The incident has also left 21 others injured.

Victims hailed from various countries, including five from Portugal, three from the United Kingdom, two from South Korea, one from the United States, one from France, one from Switzerland, and one from Ukraine. This diverse toll underscores the international impact of this devastating accident.

The Portuguese police are continuing their investigation, seeking to uncover more details about the malfunction that led to this tragedy. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with emergency responders rushing to treat the injured and secure the area.

This incident raises urgent questions about the safety protocols in place for public transport systems, especially in tourist-heavy cities like Lisbon. As investigations continue, families of the victims are left grappling with the sudden loss of their loved ones.

As developments unfold, keep an eye on updates regarding this tragic event. The world watches and mourns, with many seeking answers and accountability for this horrific accident.