Spain train crash kills many

A train has derailed in Spain killing many people and leaving many injured

By Nicole Hamer |

08:28 25 July 2013

A train that has derailed in Spain has killed at least 77 people officials have said. Over 100 people have been injured.

The train, which was going to Ferrol from Madrid, is understood to have had 218 passengers aboard when it derailed in the north-west of Spain.

The train, which is owned by Renfe, derailed near Santiago de Compostela. This is in Galicia. All eight carriages of the train were derailed.

Renfe stated that the train derailed on a corner and that the incident happened at 8.41pm local time.

Some reports from the media have said that the train may have been going faster than the limit.

It has been reported that officials have said they believe the incident was an accident although they have not been able to comment further.

It is understood than an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident.

A yearly festival takes place in Santiago de Compostela where Christian pilgrims gather to honour St. James. Based on media reports, officials have said festivities for the feast day there have been cancelled.