National mourning declared as 15 die in Lisbon funicular tragedy

A Lisbon streetcar, one of the city’s most famous tourist attractions, derailed and crashed on Wednesday, leaving 15 people dead and 18 others injured, according to Portuguese emergency services.

Among the injured is a child, with five victims reported in serious condition, the National Institute for Medical Emergencies confirmed. Authorities also noted that some of the injured are foreign nationals.

Television footage showed the iconic yellow-and-white streetcar overturned on its side along a narrow, steep street it regularly travels. The vehicle’s frame was visibly crumpled after it collided with a building at a sharp bend. Dozens of emergency responders were deployed, though many left the scene within two hours.

Eyewitnesses reported that the tram appeared to lose control as it sped downhill.

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas, speaking at the crash site, described the accident as devastating: “This was a tragic incident … a kind of tragedy we have never experienced.” President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa also offered condolences, while the Portuguese government declared Thursday a national day of mourning. Lisbon officials added three days of citywide mourning.

The cause of the derailment remains unknown, but it occurred around 6 p.m., at the start of the evening rush hour. Authorities said a formal investigation will begin once rescue operations conclude.

The tram involved, known as the Gloria, can carry more than 40 passengers and operates in tandem with another car on the same line via an electric cable system. While the lower car appeared undamaged, bystander videos broadcast by CNN Portugal showed it jolting violently when the other tram came off the tracks. Passengers were seen leaping from its windows amid panic.

Operator Carris stated that all required maintenance checks had been completed, including daily inspections, as well as weekly and monthly reviews.

Britain’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said it was monitoring the situation and prepared to provide consular support to any affected UK nationals.

Lisbon, which welcomed approximately 8.5 million tourists last year, is known for the Gloria line, where long queues often form for its short but iconic ride.