PROBE: Clean up operation and investigation launched after fatal Barcelona train crash

RENFE technicians began clearing the debris from the track in Barcelona this morning following the two train collision which left one dead and 100 injured yesterday.

Officials have confirmed the 26-year-old fatal victim is the driver of one of the trains.

Six people are still in hospital with serious injuries and 15 more ‘less seriously hurt’.

A further 37 passengers were slightly injured and 47 were treated on-site by the emergency services, before being able to leave on the scene.

About 400 people were travelling on the two trains combined, in a total of nine carriages, some of which were derailed.

A Renfe spokesperson told Spanish press ‘a failure’ had occurred which allowed two trains to use the track travelling in opposite directions.

The firm today said the line will be closed throughout the weekend while the clean up operation is carried out and an internal and police investigation is launched into the cause of the crash.

The accident, at 6.20pm in Castellgali, between the stations of Sant Vicençe Castellet and Manresa, occurred on the same R4 Rodalies line as a fatal accident in November.

A train derailed due to a land and rockslide caused by heavy rains. Four carriages came off the tracks, killing one person and leaving 50 people injured.

The Government then accused the rail company of not investing enough in the Rodalies network to prevent accidents of this type.

A coach service has been put in place for passengers affected by the closure.

Concerned relatives are advised to call 900 101 020.