The driver of a commuter train has died after a retaining wall collapsed onto the track, causing a derailment near Barcelona, Spanish authorities have confirmed. Around 15 passengers were injured, including three in serious condition and at least five with minor injuries, according to Catalonia’s Emergency Medical Service (SEM).
The incident on the R4 Rodalies line between Sant Sadurní d’Anoia and Gelida on Tuesday prompted the activation of the regional Ferrocat rail emergency plan. Eleven ambulances, fire crews from the Catalan fire service, and around 15 police units were deployed to the scene.
This marks the second major train incident in Spain in just three days, following a catastrophic collision in Adamuz, Córdoba, on 18 January 2026. Two high-speed trains were involved: an Iryo service from Málaga to Madrid derailed on a straight section of track and crossed onto the opposite line, colliding with an oncoming Renfe Alvia train bound for Huelva. The death toll has now risen to 42, with 39 passengers remaining in hospital, 13 of them in intensive care, including one minor.
A third rail incident
In a separate incident, rail services were suspended between Blanes and Maçanet-Massanes after a train axle derailed, rail infrastructure operator Adif said. The disruption was caused by the train striking a rock that had fallen onto the track during severe weather, highlighting ongoing risks to rail services amid extreme conditions.
Authorities are investigating all three incidents as they continue to assess damage and safety measures across Spain’s rail network.