KEY POINTS

  • A broken beam caused the accident on Line 12 of the metro system
  • The train toppled onto automobile traffic underneath the overpass
  • The construction of Line 12 was reportedly plagued by controversies

An overpass carrying Mexico City metro train cars partially collapsed onto a road Monday night killing at least 15 people and injuring 90, officials said.

The Line 12 of the city's metro system collapsed at around 10.30 p.m. Monday, causing a train to plunge downwards onto a road below, reported Reuters.

Footage of the incident on local television channel Milenio TV showed dozens of emergency responders searching through the rubble, and many cars trapped under the train.

“A support beam gave way,” Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum who rushed to the scene of the accident said, reported KTVN.

“Unfortunately, there are dead and injured people. I am on site supporting the installation of the command center,” Sheinbaum said on Twitter.

Mexico’s Comprehensive Risk Management agency initially said that over 13 people have lost their lives in the tragic incident. The agency confirmed in a news release that 70 people were also injured and were transferred to nearby hospitals.

The construction of Line 12 was reportedly plagued by accusations of irregularities and complaints.

“What happened today with the Metro is a terrible tragedy. My solidarity with the victims and their families,” Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard tweeted. The line was constructed when Ebrard was the mayor of Mexico City.

“Of course, the causes must be investigated and responsibilities defined. I reiterate I am at the disposal of authorities to help in whatever is necessary,” Ebrard added.

The Mexico City elevated metro line collapsed as a train was passing
The Mexico City elevated metro line collapsed as a train was passing AFP / Pedro PARDO
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