Funicular accident in Lisbon

Lisbon funicular derails – at least 15 dead

At least 15 people have died after the classic Glória Funicular in the Portuguese capital Lisbon derailed, local media report.

In addition to the deaths, 18 people were injured, 5 seriously and 13 slightly.

The funicular is popular with tourists. It is unclear how many people were traveling in the carriage at the time of the accident, but each carriage can accommodate up to 42 passengers.

According to local authorities, foreign tourists are among the dead, but it is unclear from which countries.

The cause of the accident is not yet clear.

Mayor: Lisbon in mourning after a tragic day

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas tells Portuguese media that the city is in mourning after at least 15 people died in a funicular accident in the city.

– It is a tragic day, he says.

The cause of the accident is not yet clear. Moedas promises that it will be investigated and presented when the time is right.

– But right now, out of respect for the families of the victims, I cannot comment on it.

The accident occurred at 7 p.m. and three hours later another massive operation was underway at the scene. The funicular in question is very popular with tourists, and according to the authorities, there are foreign tourists among the victims. It is not clear what nationalities the tourists have.