Audio reveals exchanges between Spain train operators and drivers moments before deadly crash
The leaked tapes appear to show one high-speed train was given clearance to move at normal speed, even though another up ahead had stalled.
Leaked audio recordings that were published in Spanish media have revealed conversations between train drivers and a control centre just minutes before a deadly crash on Wednesday morning, that has killed 69 people.
Officials are investigating the cause of the disaster, which occurred when a train from Madrid to Seville barrelled into a stationary train near Urda.
Three audio recordings between Madrid's control centre and two train drivers appear to show that one high-speed train was given clearance to move even though another train had stalled on the track, about 25km (15 miles) ahead.
The Iryo driver then contacts the control centre again, according to a later recording, saying they cannot start the train. "The train won't allow me to control the [security] system. That's why I am still stopped in front of the entry signal," they say.