The tragedy hit Lisbon on Wednesday night as the historic yellow and white tram of the city, the elevator gives glory, derailed, killing 15 people and leaving another 18 wounds.
According to the National Institute of Medical Emergencies of Portugal, among the wounded there were a child and several foreigners, with five victims in critical condition.
The accident, described as the worst in the recent history of Lisbon, occurred around 6 pm during the afternoon peak.
According to ABC News, the eye witnesses said the funicular seemed to lose control while descending a steep hill before crashing into a building and knocking down a pedestrian.
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Emergency services confirmed that all victims were rescued from the remains in two hours. The operator, Carris, declared that the tram had undergone routine maintenance, but officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of derailment.
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa extended condolences to the families of the victims, while the mayor of Lisbon Carlos Moedas declared the city of mourning. The Portuguese government announced on Thursday a national day of grieving.
European leaders, including the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and Spanish prime minister Pedro Sánchez, also expressed sympathy.
The elevator gives Gloria, opened in 1885 and classified as a national monument, is one of Lisbon’s most popular attractions, attracting millions of tourists every year.
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