A lottery ticket seller in southern Spain has become a local hero after he helped rescue victims from a devastating train collision. Gonzalo Sánchez, 43, was alerted by his town’s WhatsApp group about the accident. He quickly grabbed some tools and headed to the scene.
“It’s something you hope to never come across,” he told the broadcaster Cadena Ser. The crash happened when a high-speed train carrying around 300 passengers derailed and collided with another train. The impact derailed some cars, causing serious injuries and fatalities.
Sánchez quickly realized that the area was dark and chaotic. Many passengers were lost and injured. “It was pitch black, and you couldn’t see a thing,” he said. The rugged terrain made conditions even more difficult, with steep ridges on either side of the tracks.
Seeing the urgent need for help, Sánchez fetched his quad bike and immediately got to work. He spent about six hours transporting rescue workers and victims along the narrow paths next to the tracks. “You could hear the cries for help,” he recounted, emphasizing the dire situation.
As he worked, the small town of Adamuz rallied to support the rescue efforts. Locals opened their homes, provided food, and organized assistance for the victims.
After an exhausting night, Sánchez finally stopped when his quad bike was damaged. Despite the attention he received for his bravery, he humbly credited the many rescue workers and locals who worked tirelessly that night. “I did what anyone would have done,” he said.
King Felipe and Queen Letizia visited the crash site as the nation observed three days of mourning. Officials cautioned against drawing quick conclusions about the crash’s cause. Spain’s Interior Minister mentioned that all possibilities were being explored, including tests on the train’s tracks and equipment.
This incident serves as a reminder of the dangers inherent in travel and the importance of community. In moments of crisis, quick thinking and the willingness to help can make all the difference.
For more detailed updates, you can check reliable news sources like The Guardian.
