Skip to content

Funicular accident in Lisbon results in fatalities, as investigators attribute the incident to a faulty cable, claiming it as the culprit.

Investigation reveals that the connecting cable between Lisbon's funicular rail cars snapped, causing the accident.

Funicular accident in Lisbon tragically claims 16 lives due to cable rupture, as outlined by...
Funicular accident in Lisbon tragically claims 16 lives due to cable rupture, as outlined by investigators

Funicular accident in Lisbon results in fatalities, as investigators attribute the incident to a faulty cable, claiming it as the culprit.

In a tragic turn of events, a funicular rail accident in Lisbon, Portugal, has left 16 people dead and 21 injured, including three British nationals. The incident occurred on September 3, causing one of the carriages to crash into a building at a bend in a road in Lisbon.

The British couple named among the deceased are Kayleigh Smith and Will Nelson. Kayleigh Smith, a theatre director, had recently completed a master's degree, while Will Nelson was a lecturer at Manchester's Arden School of Theatre.

The family of Will Nelson expressed their grief, stating that the world does not feel right or normal without him. His younger brother described him as always kind, selfless, and protective. Kayleigh Smith's family remembered her for her wit and humour, and her kind and caring nature.

The exact cause of the cable snap is yet to be determined, but Portuguese officials investigating the crash confirmed that a cable along the railway's route snapped. The preliminary report by the national transport safety office stated that the cable connecting the two carriages had given way.

The investigation of the Lisbon funicular accident is being conducted by the Portuguese authorities, including the police and the accident investigation authority for rail incidents. The crash is currently under investigation, and the authorities are working diligently to determine the cause.

Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is deeply saddened by the deaths of the three British nationals in the Lisbon funicular crash. He expressed his thoughts, stating that they are with the families and those affected by the incident. The United Kingdom stands united with Portugal during this difficult time.

Sir Keir Starmer also confirmed that the Portuguese officials are leading the investigation into the cause of the accident. He emphasised the importance of ensuring safety measures are in place to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The other victims of the accident hailed from various countries, including Portugal, Canada, South Korea, the United States, France, Switzerland, and Ukraine. The thoughts and prayers of the international community are with those affected by this tragic incident.

As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of three talented individuals who inspired the next generation. The world of theatre in the United Kingdom and beyond has lost a shining light in Will Nelson, while Kayleigh Smith's legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched with her wit, humour, and kindness.

Read also: