Lisbon Funicular Crash: Eyewitness Accounts
LISBON – Chaos unfolded in Lisbon on Wednesday evening as a carriage on the iconic Gloria funicular lost control, resulting in a devastating crash that claimed the lives of at least 17 people and left 20 others injured, some critically.
Witnesses described the horrifying scene as the carriage careened down the steep cobblestoned street, crashing into a building and crumpling on its side. Helen Chow, who was at the base of the hill, recounted the moment the carriage descended at full speed, causing a deafening crash and a cloud of black smoke.
People were left frantic and in tears, with bystanders rushing to assist those in need. The aftermath left many in shock, with one witness describing the scene as “awful” and leaving her “shaken”.
Police are still investigating the cause of the crash near Lisbon’s Avenida da Liberdade in the Portuguese capital. Video footage verified by the BBC captured the yellow-and-white train mangled against the building, with another train halted at the bottom of the hill.
The 140-year-old funicular, powered by electric motors, operates with two carriages attached to a cable for a three-minute one-way journey. Eyewitnesses detailed how the carriage near the bottom of the hill suffered a setback before the upper carriage hurtled down uncontrollably.
Accounts of a loud screech moments before the crash and passengers describing a “big bang” and black smoke paint a picture of the harrowing incident. Witnesses reported debris, screams, and a sense of panic as the tragedy unfolded.
As the investigation continues, stories of narrowly missed tragedy emerged, with tourists recalling their close calls with the funicular. Eric Packer, an American visitor, captured the aftermath in a photograph, highlighting the devastation caused by the crash.
Despite the devastation, acts of bravery and compassion were also witnessed, with individuals rushing to the scene to aid those in need. As the city grapples with the aftermath of the crash, thoughts and prayers are extended to the families of the victims and the survivors of this tragic event.
