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Wednesday, Aug 19, 2026
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Ski Lift Collapse in Spain: Multiple Injuries Reported at Pyrenean Resort
Incident at Astún in Aragón leaves ten injured, including two with serious injuries, as rescue operations continue
At least ten individuals sustained injuries, with two critically hurt, following a ski lift collapse at the Astún ski resort in the Aragón region of northeastern Spain.
The accident occurred on Saturday, sending numerous passengers plummeting into the snow.
Initial reports speculated that 35 people were injured, but regional emergency services later adjusted these numbers, clarifying that 30 people were involved in the incident.
By early afternoon, emergency responders had transported ten individuals to hospitals, with two of them sustaining severe injuries requiring urgent care.
An additional six received medical treatment on-site, while twenty others were assessed and cleared without further hospitalization requirements.
Authorities believe a malfunction in the ski lift's return system led to a breakdown in the tension, causing the collapse, as mentioned by Miguel Ángel Clavero, head of Aragón’s emergency services.
Emergency responders, including firefighters and ski station personnel, quickly mobilized to assist stranded passengers still on the lift.
At least five helicopters, 14 ambulances, and a mobile medical unit were dispatched to support the rescue operation immediately following the incident.
The regional president of Aragón, Jorge Azcón, confirmed his visit to the site, while Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, expressed his concern over the accident and extended government support.
Eyewitness reports shared with local media recounted chilling experiences.
Maria Moreno, a survivor, described the abrupt freefall and subsequent impact, leading to her injury.
Another individual, identified as Jaime Pelegi, recounted the moment of the collapse, noting a sudden feeling of freefall and attributed his lack of injuries to the lower height from which he fell.
Astún, a popular resort near the French border within the Pyrenees mountains, remains under investigation for the exact causes of the ski lift failure.
As the situation develops, authorities focus on ensuring safety and providing necessary assistance to those affected.
The accident occurred on Saturday, sending numerous passengers plummeting into the snow.
Initial reports speculated that 35 people were injured, but regional emergency services later adjusted these numbers, clarifying that 30 people were involved in the incident.
By early afternoon, emergency responders had transported ten individuals to hospitals, with two of them sustaining severe injuries requiring urgent care.
An additional six received medical treatment on-site, while twenty others were assessed and cleared without further hospitalization requirements.
Authorities believe a malfunction in the ski lift's return system led to a breakdown in the tension, causing the collapse, as mentioned by Miguel Ángel Clavero, head of Aragón’s emergency services.
Emergency responders, including firefighters and ski station personnel, quickly mobilized to assist stranded passengers still on the lift.
At least five helicopters, 14 ambulances, and a mobile medical unit were dispatched to support the rescue operation immediately following the incident.
The regional president of Aragón, Jorge Azcón, confirmed his visit to the site, while Spain's Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, expressed his concern over the accident and extended government support.
Eyewitness reports shared with local media recounted chilling experiences.
Maria Moreno, a survivor, described the abrupt freefall and subsequent impact, leading to her injury.
Another individual, identified as Jaime Pelegi, recounted the moment of the collapse, noting a sudden feeling of freefall and attributed his lack of injuries to the lower height from which he fell.
Astún, a popular resort near the French border within the Pyrenees mountains, remains under investigation for the exact causes of the ski lift failure.
As the situation develops, authorities focus on ensuring safety and providing necessary assistance to those affected.