LISBON, Portugal — A streetcar derailment in Lisbon on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people and injured 18 others, emergency services reported. Among the injured, five individuals are in serious condition, and a child is among those hurt. The National Institute for Medical Emergencies confirmed that some of the injured may be foreign nationals.

The incident, described as the worst accident in the city’s recent history, has cast a shadow over Lisbon, a city that attracts millions of tourists each year. The yellow-and-white streetcar, known as the Elevador da Glória, derailed while traveling down a steep hill, ending up on its side on a narrow road. Eyewitnesses reported that the streetcar appeared to be out of control as it careened down the hill, with one witness stating it toppled onto a man on the sidewalk.

The streetcar, which can carry over 40 passengers, is a popular attraction and is commonly used by local residents. It operates on a curved, traffic-free road and is powered by steel cables. The vehicle was partially crumpled and appeared to have crashed into a building at a bend in the road. Carris, the company that operates the streetcar, stated that scheduled maintenance had been conducted prior to the accident.

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas expressed his condolences, stating, "It’s a tragedy of the like we’ve never seen." He declared a three-day mourning period for the city. Portugal's government announced a national day of mourning for Thursday, emphasizing the tragic loss of life and the impact on families and the nation.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also extended her condolences, saying, "It is with sadness that I learned of the derailment of the famous Elevador da Glória." The cause of the derailment is still under investigation, with authorities indicating that it occurred around 6 p.m., coinciding with the start of the evening rush hour.

Emergency responders worked for over two hours to extract all victims from the wreckage. The investigation into the causes of the accident will commence once the rescue operations are concluded. The Elevador da Glória, inaugurated in 1885, is classified as a national monument and remains a significant part of Lisbon's cultural heritage.