56 injured, one severely, in train crash in Barcelona

More than 50 people have been injured, one of them severely, after a train crash in Barcelona, according to the latest official report by emergency services. Of those, 18 have been taken to the hospital, including the train driver.

The train, part of the R2 line, was completing the route from Sant Vicenç de Calders in southern Catalonia to the Estació de França in the center of the city of Barcelona, and apparently did not stop when entering the station, hitting the buffers at the end of the platform. The train left Sant Vicenç de Calders at 6:02 this morning and the incident happened at 7:15, when the train arrived at platform 11 of Barcelona's Estació de França.

The Council of Barcelona has activated its emergency protocol for cases of multiple injured persons and there are 11 teams of firefighters, 9 of police, and several agents of the local Guardia Urbana at the scene.  

Renfe, the Spanish rail operator, was offering only minimum service this Friday since workers are on strike.

Renfe has initiated an investigation to determine the causes of the accident. Relatives concerned about their loved ones can call 900 101 020 (toll free). Emergency services have confirmed that none of the injuries are life threatening.

Catalan president Carles Puigdemont showed his support to the victims and emergency services on Twitter and in person, visiting the scene of the accident. Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau and several ministers have also been at the scene.