Deadly Lisbon streetcar accident that claimed lives of three British nationals occurred due to a rupture in the cable connecting the two carriages, revealed investigators
The picturesque city of Lisbon was left in shock on Wednesday evening, as a tragic accident involving the historic Gloria funicular tram claimed the lives of 16 individuals and injured 21 others. Among the deceased were two British nationals – Kayleigh Smith, a prominent theatre director, and Will Nelson, a lecturer at Manchester's Arden School of Theatre.
The yellow-and-white streetcar, known as Elevador da Gloria, is a 140-year-old attraction that goes up and down a steep downtown hill. The streetcar is harnessed by steel cables, with the descending car aiding in pulling up the other one. However, tragedy struck when a cable connecting the two cabins snapped, causing them to collide.
Kayleigh Smith's family issued a heartfelt statement, expressing their grief and praising her work as a funeral operative and theatre director. They remembered her as a loving daughter, sister, and friend who had a passion for the arts. Similarly, Will Nelson's brother issued a statement describing him as a kind, selfless, and protective individual.
Tim Roca, Macclesfield MP, paid tribute to both Smith and Nelson, highlighting their contributions to the local theatre community. Roca expressed his deep sympathy to the families and friends of the victims, adding that their loss would be felt deeply by everyone who knew them.
In addition to the British victims, the disaster claimed the lives of five Portuguese nationals, two Canadians, two South Koreans, one American, one French, one Swiss, and one Ukrainian. The heartbroken families of Smith and Nelson, along with other victims, have paid tributes to their loved ones, who were all highly regarded members of their respective communities.
The initial report into the crash describes the two cabins as having essentially snapped. Excavations are currently taking place at the site of the accident, with a final report expected at a later date.
In response to the incident, Portugal's President, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, paid his respects to the victims. The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, expressed his deep sadness over the loss of three British nationals and offered his support to the affected families. The Foreign Office is also supporting the families of the three British victims.
Flowers, balloons, and candles have been left by well-wishers close to the scene of the crash, serving as a poignant reminder of the lives lost. As the city mourns, the Gloria funicular's operations remain suspended, and a national mourning period has been declared.
The incident has raised urgent questions about the safety of such historic and tourist-favored funiculars. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the cable's failure and to ensure the safety of similar attractions.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to all those affected by this tragic incident.
Read also:
- Lu Shiow-yen's Challenging Position as Chair of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Under Scrutiny in Donovan's Analysis
- Who is Palestine Action, the organization tied to numerous arrests within the UK?
- "Trump Criticizes EU's $3.5 billion fine on Google as Unjust, Threatens Additional Tariffs"
- Restructuring community adaptability amidst multiple concurrent crises
