According to available information, the collision between two high‑speed trains resulted in at least 69 fatalities and about 80 injured, 15 of whom are in very serious condition. The Iryo train was carrying 147 people, while the Renfe train had 397 passengers on board.
The accident occurred on the morning of 28 October at approximately 08:53. Published reports indicate that the LZB safety system had previously recorded a fault and train operations temporarily switched to manual mode. Spanish authorities are investigating the circumstances that allowed traffic to resume and the sequence of decisions taken in the 17 minutes before the impact.
FADERE conveyed its compassion to bereaved families, the injured and all those affected by the tragedy. “Îi mulțumim lui Dumnezeu că, până la această oră, nu există informații confirmate privind cetățeni români printre persoanele decedate” and the organization expressed hope that this situation will not change. Romanian consular authorities continue official checks regarding the citizenship of the victims.
Beyond the investigation into causes, FADERE emphasized that the immediate priority is saving lives, providing support to the wounded and standing in solidarity with affected families.
The federation appealed to all Romanians eligible to donate blood who are in the province of Toledo, in Castilla‑La Mancha or nearby localities: Go and donate blood! In such moments, every gesture matters — a blood bag donated today can mean an extra chance for someone hospitalized.
The Castilla‑La Mancha Health Service has announced several official blood drives. On 29 October a collection is scheduled at:
Añover de Tajo – Centro Cívico
Hours: 17:00–20:30
On 30 October collections are planned at Almorox – Consultorio Médico, 17:00–20:30, and at Talavera La Nueva – Centro Médico, 17:30–21:00.
FADERE thanked everyone involved in the response: medical staff, firefighters, rescue teams, law enforcement, volunteers and all who are supporting the victims. “În fața unei tragedii nu există naționalitate. Există oameni care suferă și oameni care pot ajuta.” The organization noted that the Romanian community in Spain has repeatedly shown solidarity and called for unity once more.
About FADERE
The Federation of Romanian Associations in Europe (FADERE) is an umbrella organization representing Romanian communities across Europe. It coordinates cultural, social and humanitarian initiatives and advocates for the interests of Romanians living abroad.
