Out of control': Witnesses describe fatal Lisbon funicular crash

Funicular plunges into river, killing 19

A funicular in the Portuguese capital Lisbon crashed to the ground on Tuesday morning, killing at least 19 people. Witnesses described the vehicle as running out of control as it plummeted from the steep hill near the São Jorge Castle, with some survivors still trapped inside as it landed in the river below.

Witnesses described the terrifying moments just before the crash. Victim Adamo Cardoso said he felt the funicular begin to accelerate and roll backwards despite the efforts of the conductor.

"The conductor was trying to engage the brakes but nothing was working. It was as if the funicular wanted to go into free fall."

Another witness, shopper Maria Correia, saw the crash happen from the street above.

"I saw the funicular crashing into the river. I saw people falling out and hitting the water. It was horrible. I will never forget it."

Emergency services respond

Emergency services arrived at the scene within minutes, quickly mobilizing divers and helicopters to search the river for potential survivors. A statement from the Portuguese Police said that, in addition to the 19 deaths, a further 32 people were injured, with many still in critical condition in hospital.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.