Train Derails in Southern Mexico, Leaving 13 Dead and Dozens Injured

A Tragic Accident

A train carrying 250 people has partially derailed in southern Mexico, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 individuals and injuring 98, according to authorities. The Mexican Navy reported that the Interoceanic Train, which connects the states of Oaxaca and Veracruz, went off the tracks on Sunday while navigating a curve near the town of Nizanda.

Authorities Respond

Emergency services reported that 98 individuals were injured, and "unfortunately, 13 people lost their lives." At the time of the accident, the train had nine crew members and 241 passengers on board. Among those present, 139 were deemed safe, while 36 of the injured continued to receive medical care.

Official Reactions

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated on platform X that at least five of the injured were in "serious condition." She ordered the Secretary of the Navy and other high-ranking officials to travel to the area to assist the families of those affected. Additionally, the Ministry of the Interior is coordinating the response to the incident.

Investigation Underway

The Office of the Attorney General of Mexico announced the opening of an investigation to determine the cause of the derailment. Several emergency units have been deployed near the incident site, but difficult access has complicated rescue efforts. Images shared on social media and published by Mexican news channels show one train car on its side, while another was completely separated from the tracks.

Cause of the Derailment?

A passenger quoted by the Mexican newspaper La Razon stated that before the derailment, the train was "going very fast." "We do not know if the brakes failed," the passenger said. The Governor of Oaxaca, Salomon Jara Cruz, expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident.

Major Infrastructure Project

The train operates between the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean, transporting both passengers and cargo. On December 20, a train on the same route collided with a freight truck attempting to cross the tracks; however, that incident did not result in any fatalities. The line was inaugurated in 2023 as part of a major infrastructure project during the administration of former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, aimed at developing southeastern Mexico.