Ski Lift Collapse in Spain Leaves 10 Injured, Eyewitnesses Share Harrowing Accounts

Initial reports of casualties were inflated; however, the incident reveals serious safety concerns regarding ski lifts in the region.

A ski lift accident at Astún resort in the Spanish Pyrenees has resulted in 10 injuries, including two women who are currently in intensive care. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene as skiers were thrown from their chairs when a pulley failure caused a cable to slacken, leading to some chairs plunging to the ground.

Initially, reports indicated that as many as 30 individuals were hurt, but local media later revised the figure to 17 who required medical assistance. Emergency services, including ambulances and helicopters, quickly arrived at the scene to transport the injured to hospitals.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his shock at the incident and has offered the government's full support, while Regional President Jorge Azcón made his way to the site to oversee the response efforts.

One eyewitness, Jaime Pelegri, recounted the terrifying moment when a cable lost tension, leading to chairs on his side of the lift falling: "It was very scary, but very fast."

Footage circulating on social media appears to show one of the chairlift's flywheels dislodged from its upright position. However, the cause of this alarming incident remains under investigation.

The Astún resort, a popular destination for Spanish skiers, has been closed while rescue operations continue, and a dedicated hotline has been established for the families of the affected individuals. The incident raises critical safety questions about ski lift operations in the region.