The Madrid Train Bombing, also known as the 11-M bombings, was a terrorist attack that occurred on March 11, 2004. The attack took place in Madrid, the capital city of Spain. It is considered to be one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in Europe’s history.
The Attack
On the morning of March 11th, ten bombs exploded on four commuter trains during rush hour. The Targeted trains were traveling on different lines and were scheduled to arrive at Atocha Station in central Madrid. The bombings happened between 7:37 am and 7:40 am local time.
The Aftermath
The attack claimed the lives of 191 people and injured over 1,800 others. The aftermath of the bombing was chaotic as emergency services rushed to treat the wounded and transport them to hospitals. Spanish authorities launched an investigation into the attack and determined that it was carried out by Islamic extremists.
The Location
The Madrid Train Bombing occurred at various locations across Madrid’s commuter rail network. Specifically, four trains were Targeted:
- Alcalá de Henares train station
- Santa Eugenia station
- Atocha station (two bombs exploded here)
- El Pozo del Tío Raimundo station (four bombs exploded here)
Atocha Station
Atocha Station is one of Madrid’s busiest transportation hubs. It serves both local and long-distance trains as well as buses and metro lines. Two bombs exploded at Atocha Station on platform two causing significant damage to the train carriages and surrounding area.
El Pozo del Tío Raimundo Station
El Pozo del Tío Raimundo Station was hit the hardest with four bombs exploding there. The station serves commuter trains that run on the Madrid-Arganda del Rey line. The bombs were placed on the train carriages, causing severe damage and loss of life.
Conclusion
The Madrid Train Bombing was a tragic event that shook Spain and the world. It happened at various locations across Madrid’s commuter rail network, Targeting four different trains during rush hour.
The attack claimed 191 lives and injured over 1,800 people. It is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of terrorism and extremism.