Train derails in southern Mexico, killing 13 and injuring dozens
At least 13 people died and dozens were hurt when a passenger train derailed in southern Mexico’s Chiapas state, prompting a major rescue effort and questions over maintenance.
Horror on the tracks: death toll rises after Mexico train crash
CHIAPAS, Mexico — A passenger train carrying more than 200 travelers derailed late Monday night in the southern state of Chiapas, leaving at least 13 people dead and more than 60 injured, according to local officials.
Chaos in the cloud forest
The 11-car service, known as the Tren Interoceánico, was rounding a bend near the mountain town of Tonalá when several coaches left the track and plunged down a 20-meter embankment. Witnesses described a thunderous screech followed by a cloud of dust that filled the jungle air.
"I was asleep in my seat when I felt a violent jolt," said 34-year-old passenger Daniela Pérez, who suffered a broken arm. "Suddenly the carriage tilted and everything went dark. People were screaming."
Emergency teams worked through the night, using heavy-lift cranes and sniffer dogs to search for survivors. By dawn, rescuers had extracted at least 15 people trapped in the wreckage.
Investigation focuses on track maintenance
Federal authorities have opened an inquiry into the cause of the derailment. Early data from the onboard event recorder suggests the train had slowed from 90 km/h to roughly 50 km/h before the accident, indicating the driver may have reacted to an obstacle or track defect.
- The 600-km route links the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific and was reopened last year as part of a flagship infrastructure project.
- Heavy rains had soaked the region for days, raising concerns about soil stability beneath the rails.
- Union representatives claim maintenance budgets were slashed earlier this year, a charge the rail operator denies.
President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed condolences on social media and promised "a full and transparent investigation."
‘We need answers’
Relatives of the victims gathered at a makeshift morgue in Tuxtla Gutiérrez on Tuesday, many clutching photographs of loved ones. "My brother was traveling to sell coffee beans," said Marisol García, 28. "He was the breadwinner for three children. We need answers."
Officials have pledged compensation for the families and free medical care for the injured. The line will remain closed for at least a week while engineers inspect every mile of track.