Spain’s transport minister quits days after deadly train crash

Spain’s Transport Minister Óscar Puente has resigned six days after a high-speed train collision that killed at least 69 people and injured dozens, the BBC reports.

Puente announced his decision in Congress, where he was giving evidence on last Wednesday’s crash near Urda, south of Madrid.

He said a transport minister “cannot remain in office” after two accidents of such seriousness in less than a year, referring also to a deadly crash in Andalusia in January. He also withdrew his name from the lists for the early general election on 29 November.

A state-run Renfe train carrying 397 passengers hit the back of a stationary Iryo train carrying 147. Puente said the order for the Renfe train to proceed was an “error.”

Leaked audio published by Spanish media appears to show the Renfe train was cleared to move although another had stopped about 25km ahead. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has promised authorities will get to the bottom of the tragedy.