**Cal Poly Students Recovering After Train Collision in Spain**
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Two students from California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) are currently recuperating in Spain following a tragic train collision that occurred on 28 October. The incident, which took place in Urda, involved a rear-end crash on the high-speed line between Madrid and Seville, and has resulted in significant fatalities and injuries.
In a statement to media outlets, Cal Poly confirmed that the injured students were on a study-abroad programme in Spain at the time of the accident. The university expressed its concern and support, stating, “We are in contact with U.S. Embassy officials and our Study Abroad partners in Spain regarding the tragic incident.” The institution is also reaching out to the families of the affected students to provide necessary support during this challenging time.
The students have been identified through two separate GoFundMe campaigns as Leah Silver-Fajardo and Austin Hartman. According to reports, Silver-Fajardo is a neuropsychology student from Seattle and recently celebrated her 21st birthday in Italy. However, she is now facing a long recovery in a Spanish hospital, having sustained severe injuries in the crash. The fundraiser set up on her behalf has garnered significant support, raising over £135,000 for her medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Silver-Fajardo’s injuries include fractures to her knee and pelvis, multiple rib fractures, and bruised lungs, along with various scrapes and burns. According to family members, she has already undergone knee surgery and is anticipated to require additional surgery on her pelvis.
Austin Hartman, a business student from Bellingham, Washington, was also on the train during the accident while exploring the city of Seville on a day trip. His injuries are extensive, comprising fractures of the pelvis, hip, femur, and lumbar vertebrae, as well as lacerations to his face and body. His fundraiser has raised over £63,000 to assist with his medical expenses, as he faces an extensive recovery process that may delay his return to the U.S. for at least two months, heeding the need for multiple surgeries.
The tragic collision has had far-reaching consequences, resulting in the deaths of 69 individuals and approximately 200 injuries, as reported by Spain’s Railway Accident Investigation Commission. In response to the incident, the Spanish government has announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing the safety measures of high-speed rail networks. This includes technological improvements for control centres, revised operating protocols, and enhanced working conditions for air traffic controllers.
President Pedro Sánchez has committed to providing support to the victims and their families during this challenging time. He stated that the government will approve a decree aimed at assisting victims through their grief and providing guidance through necessary administrative procedures.
The tragic events of 28 October have not only affected those directly involved, such as the Cal Poly students, but also brought attention to the need for stringent safety regulations in rail travel. The efforts to improve safety and ensure such an event does not recur are crucial in light of this heart-wrenching incident.
As recovery continues for Silver-Fajardo and Hartman, their communities and peers at Cal Poly remain hopeful for their healing and support their families during this time of uncertainty. Many continue to contribute to the fundraisers established to aid in their recovery, demonstrating a strong spirit of solidarity among students and community members alike.
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