The driver behind the wheel of a train that derailed in Spain has been found to have been going more than double the speed limit and was on the phone during the time of the crash that killed 79 people. A Spanish court said Tuesday that data from a black box recorder found that Francisco Jose Garzon Amo was going 119 mph when the train derailed. He was apparently on the phone with an official with the national railroad company Renfe, referencing documents he had in front of him, the Associated Press reported.
He was charged Sunday with negligent homicide, CNN reported. Investigators from from the Santiago de Compostela court, forensic police experts, the Ministry of Transport and Renfe all examined the contents of the black box and discovered these preliminary findings. The investigation is still ongoing. Galicia regional police chief Jaime Iglesias told reporters Friday that the Garzon Amo was being detained for a crime involving his recklessness.
"Well ... in connection to the accident, in connection with his recklessness, in connection with causing the accident," he said.
The train carrying 218 passengers crashed Wednesday when it derailed and slammed into a concrete wall. Witnesses and passengers said that people were trapped under the train debris as the vehicle caught fire. Officials said that the Garzon Amo failed to apply the brakes in time, which should have happened 2.5 miles before the train reached the curve.
Dozens are still being treated for injuries.
© 2024 Latin Times. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
