Elevator carrying Gloria plummeted violently into a building, shattering into pieces resembling a fragile cardboard box.
In the heart of Lisbon, Portugal, a devastating incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon. The Elevador da Glória, a well-known landmark and essential mode of transport for many, derailed and toppled over, causing widespread panic and tragedy.
The authorities responded swiftly, arriving at the scene within minutes of the accident. The incident occurred at around 6:05 PM, with the derailed elevator crashing to the ground, sending shockwaves through the city.
The aftermath was harrowing, with victims being removed from the scene on stretchers. Unfortunately, the derailment resulted in 15 fatalities and left 18 individuals with injuries, including a child who is now stable. Among the injured, 5 individuals are in critical condition, while 13 have minor injuries.
The Government has been closely monitoring the situation since the first minutes, and a national day of mourning has been declared for Thursday. Pedestrians on nearby Avenida da Liberdade were sent running towards the middle of the avenue due to fear of the elevator crashing into another structure.
The president of Carris, the company responsible for the maintenance of the Elevador da Glória, assured that the maintenance of the elevator was "scrupulously" ensured. However, the derailed elevator was reportedly out of control before it crashed.
An inquiry has been opened by the Public Ministry to determine the causes of the derailment. The investigation is being coordinated by a state investigation commission in Portugal, specifically the office for the prevention and investigation of air and rail accidents (GPIAAF). This commission presented a preliminary report on the accident's cause three days after the incident.
As the city mourns and the investigation continues, our thoughts are with the families and friends of those affected by this tragic incident.
[Last updated at 9:45 PM]
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