Dozens injured in Spanish ski resort accident

A chairlift collapse at a ski resort in the Pyrenees near Spain's border with France on Saturday left approximately 35 people injured, regional officials reported, with several sustaining serious injuries.

Miguel Ángel Clavero, Aragon's director of emergencies, confirmed the incident, citing a mechanical failure as the cause.

“There was a failure in the return pulley of one of the chairlifts, causing the cable to lose tension, which led to some chairs falling and others hanging precariously,” Clavero told public broadcaster TVE.

Local media reported that 39 people were injured, including nine critically. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as skiers on the lift were suddenly thrown from their chairs.

"Suddenly, we heard a sound and fell straight to the ground. We bounced multiple times. Some of us were hurt, but others were struck directly by falling chairs," María Moreno, a witness, told TVE.

Emergency crews, including five helicopters and a dozen ambulances, were dispatched to transport the injured to nearby hospitals.

Regional leader Jorge Azcón confirmed on social media platform X that he was heading to the site, adding that all resources were being mobilized to assist the victims. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also offered federal support during a call with Azcón.

The accident has raised concerns about safety standards at the resort, as investigations are now underway.