Ottawa Man Killed in Lisbon Streetcar Crash; Wife Injured

UPDATE: A tragic streetcar crash in Lisbon has claimed the life of an Ottawa man, Aziz Benharref, while on vacation with his wife, Hind Iguernane. The incident, which occurred earlier this month, has left the family reeling as they cope with this devastating loss.

The streetcar derailment took place in the Portuguese capital, resulting in a total of 16 fatalities, including tourists from Canada. Global Affairs Canada has confirmed awareness of the deaths of two Canadian citizens in this accident, with a couple from Quebec already identified among the victims. Benharref’s family is in shock that his name was not initially included in the reports.

Iguernane suffered multiple severe injuries in the crash and is currently recovering. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist her during this difficult time, highlighting the emotional toll this tragedy has taken on the family.

Youness Iguernane, Hind’s brother, expressed his disbelief at the oversight, stating, “We never expected this and are still processing the shock of losing Aziz.”

This incident underscores the risks that travelers may face and serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of such excursions. The community in Orleans, where Benharref lived, is mourning the loss, sending heartfelt condolences to his family.

As investigations continue into the cause of the derailment, authorities are urging the public for patience. The local government in Lisbon is expected to hold a press conference soon to address the ongoing situation and provide updates on safety measures being implemented to prevent future accidents.

For those affected, the outpouring of support from the community is evident, as friends and neighbors rally around Iguernane during her recovery. As this story develops, the impact of the tragedy resonates far beyond Lisbon, touching the hearts of many across Canada.

Stay tuned for more updates as officials release additional information regarding the investigation and the support being offered to the victims’ families. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in travel and the support networks we must rely on in times of crisis.