Portugal is in mourning after 16 people died and a further 23 were injured when Lisbon's famous Glória funicular cable railway derailed on Wednesday evening.
Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro told a news conference on Thursday the number was revised down after emergency services earlier had put the toll at 17.
Among the dead were seven men and eight women, Margarida Castro Martins, head of Lisbon's Civil Protection Agency, said. Police have not yet confirmed the identities of those who died, but some have been named.
Victims Identified
Mr. André Jorge Gonçalves Marques, who served as the brake guard on the funicular, was among the deceased. His employer, Carris, described him as a dedicated and kind professional, leaving behind a grieving family.
Another victim, Pedro Manuel Alves Trindade, a former volleyball referee, was also identified among the casualties. The Portuguese Volleyball Federation expressed its deep sadness over the loss, confirming Mr. Trindade's contributions within the sports community.
Community Response
Reports indicate that three other workers at Santa Casa da Misericórdia, a major Portuguese charity, also perished in the crash, casting a shadow over the organization and its employees.
Emergency services reported that many injuries came from a diverse group of nationalities, reflecting the funicular's appeal to both locals and tourists. Police have confirmed some fatalities were foreign nationals, with identities still being verified.
Investigation and Aftermath
An investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the derailment, while the Glória funicular remains suspended. Witness accounts describe a chaotic scene, with passengers expressing shock and disbelief.
The Portuguese government has declared a national day of mourning to honor the victims as the community rallies to support the families affected by this tragic event.
