Tragic Funicular Crash in Lisbon Claims 16 Lives, Including Worker

Portugal is in mourning after 16 people died and a further 23 were injured when Lisbon's famous Glória funicular cable railway derailed on Wednesday evening.

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro confirmed the death toll, which was revised down from 17 after initial reports from emergency services. Among the deceased were seven men and eight women, Margarida Castro Martins, head of Lisbon's Civil Protection Agency, said.

Of those killed, five were Portuguese citizens, while the rest included three Britons, two South Koreans, two Canadians, an American, a Ukrainian, a Swiss, and a French national. Police have yet to confirm the identities of all deceased, but some names are emerging.

André Jorge Gonçalves Marques

A brake guard on the funicular, Mr. Marques was remembered as a dedicated employee by his union and employer. He leaves behind a wife and two children.

Pedro Manuel Alves Trindade

A former volleyball referee and leader in the Lisbon Volleyball Association, Mr. Trindade's association expressed their deep sadness over the loss, noting that he also worked with a local charity where several employees perished.

What Else Do We Know?

Three other employees from the charity organization Santa Casa da Misericórdia were also victims. Eyewitness accounts mention that many used the funicular regularly due to steep city terrain.

A family from Germany was on board during the incident; while authorities initially reported a father's death, he has since been found alive in a local hospital. His wife remains in critical condition, and their young child sustained minor injuries.

What We Still Don't Know

The total number of passengers aboard the funicular at the time of the crash is still unconfirmed, as is the final number of injured individuals. The popular funicular, essential for navigating Lisbon's hills, has been suspended in the aftermath of the accident.