Death toll rises to 39 in Spain high-speed train derailment

MADRID, Jan 19 (KUNA) -- The death toll from a high-speed train derailment in southern Spain overnight has risen to 39, with the number expected to increase in the coming hours, Spanish TV reported Monday.
More than 70 people are hospitalized, including 24 in critical condition, while around 170 others with minor injuries were treated at a field hospital near the scene, the report added. Head of the Spanish National Railway Network (RENFE), Alvaro Fernandez, told state television that it is "still too early" to determine the causes of the derailment. He noted that the incident occurred on a straight section of track equipped with active safety systems, making it an "unusual accident." Fernandez ruled out "human error," explaining that the system is designed to correct any mistakes by the driver. He also said records show both trains were operating below the speed limit on that section of track. (pick up previous) hnd.aa