A funicular crash in Lisbon killed 16 people and injured more than 20 others on Wednesday evening. The car smashed into a building after careering down a steep hill in the Portuguese capital.
An investigation has been launched into what caused the disaster on the Elevador da Glória funicular near Restauradores Square. Portugal's Prime Minister described the incident as one of the "biggest tragedies" in the country's recent history.
The Mayor of Lisbon said his city needs answers following the deadly crash. Emergency services responded to the scene as rescue operations continued into the night.
International Victims
International casualties included American tourists and two Canadians among those killed or injured. A German family was particularly affected by the tragedy, with a father killed and his three-year-old son and wife injured in the crash.
The incident highlights the international nature of those affected by the disaster. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Portugal's tourism sector and raised questions about safety measures for historic transport systems.
National Response
Portugal declared a national day of mourning in response to the tragedy. The government's response reflects the scale of the disaster and its impact on the nation.
The 19th-century Elevador da Glória is a major tourist attraction usually packed with sightseers during peak season. The historic funicular operates on Lisbon's steep hills and attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year.
Eyewitness Account
Local resident António Azevedo described hearing smoke and screams during the incident. The eyewitness accounts paint a picture of chaos and confusion as the disaster unfolded.
The crash has raised serious questions about the safety of Lisbon's historic transport infrastructure. Authorities are working to determine exactly what caused the funicular to lose control on the steep incline.
Sources used: "Channel4", "Morning Star", "Daily Mail", "The Guardian", "Independent" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
