Incident Overview
A devastating funicular crash in Lisbon, Portugal, has claimed the lives of 16 people, including an 82-year-old British man identified as Andrew David Kenneth Young. The incident occurred on Wednesday when the Elevador da Glória, a popular tourist attraction, derailed in the center of the Portuguese capital.
Victim Identification
Andrew David Kenneth Young, a transport enthusiast from Holyhead, Wales, was among the British victims of the crash. He was known for traveling the world to ride trams and visit heritage railways. The family of the deceased stated that he died doing what he loved.
Crash Details and Investigation
The funicular crashed into a building, resulting in 16 fatalities and 22 injuries. According to a preliminary report, problems with a cable likely caused the funicular to hurtle down a hill, leading to the crash. The report indicated that the cable had become disconnected before the accident, which occurred within 50 seconds.
Official Response
The crash has been described as one of Lisbon's worst tragedies in recent memory. Officials have been working to investigate the cause of the incident and provide support to the victims' families.
Background and Context
The Elevador da Glória is a historic funicular railway that connects the neighborhood of Bairro Alto to the top of one of Lisbon's seven hills. It is a popular tourist attraction and a significant part of the city's heritage.
Safety Concerns
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the funicular and the maintenance of its infrastructure. The preliminary report's findings on the cable issue will likely be subject to further investigation and scrutiny.
International Reaction
The incident has garnered international attention, with reports of other nationals among the victims, including a Quebec City couple.
Support and Tributes
Tributes have been paid to the victims, including Andrew David Kenneth Young, who was remembered for his passion for transport and travel.
Conclusion
The Lisbon funicular crash is a tragic incident that has resulted in significant loss of life and raised questions about safety and infrastructure. As the investigation continues, officials will work to determine the exact cause of the crash and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety and maintenance of critical infrastructure, particularly in tourist areas.
Investigation Timeline
- September 3: The funicular crash occurs in Lisbon, resulting in 16 fatalities and 22 injuries.
- September 6: Initial findings reveal that the funicular accident occurred within 50 seconds, with the cable disconnected before the crash.
- September 7: Preliminary reports suggest problems with a cable likely caused the funicular to crash.
- September 8: The third British victim, Andrew David Kenneth Young, is identified.
Related Information
The Elevador da Glória funicular is one of the three historic funiculars in Lisbon's transport system. It was built in 1880 and has been in operation ever since, becoming a popular tourist attraction.