Lisbon streetcar crash: 15 fatalities, 18 injuries reported

In a shocking incident, Lisbon's iconic Elevador da Glória streetcar derailed on Wednesday evening during the rush hour, resulting in a tragic accident. The streetcar, a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, crashed into a building on a narrow road where it bends.

The derailment led to 15 fatalities and 18 injuries, including a child. This incident, according to Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas, is the worst accident in Lisbon's recent history.

The Gloria streetcar, known for its role as a common means of transport for Lisbon residents, is also a popular tourist attraction. The city hosted around 8.5 million tourists last year, and the streetcar is a significant part of the tourist experience.

Eyewitnesses reported that the streetcar was out of control before the accident. The streetcar, classified as a national monument, runs parallel to another on a curved, traffic-free road for a few hundred meters (yards).

The authority responsible for investigating the cause of the accident is the GPIAAF (Gabinete de Prevenção e Investigação de Acidentes com Aeronaves e de Acidentes Ferroviários), the Office for the Prevention and Investigation of Aircraft and Railway Accidents in Portugal.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her condolences, describing the incident as a tragedy. An investigation into the causes of the accident will begin once the rescue operation is over.

The streetcar can carry more than 40 people, seated and standing. The derailment has sent shockwaves through the city, and the authorities are urging everyone to stay informed and follow updates regarding the investigation and recovery efforts.