A deadly train derailment in southern Mexico has claimed at least 13 lives and left dozens of passengers injured, according to official statements from the Mexican navy. The incident occurred in the south-western state of Oaxaca as the train was navigating a curved section of track near the town of Nizanda.

Authorities confirmed that the passenger train was carrying 241 passengers along with nine crew members at the time of the crash. The service was operating along the Interoceanic rail route, which links the Gulf Coast with the Pacific Ocean. This corridor is considered a key transportation and development project for the region.

The navy reported that a total of 98 people sustained injuries in the accident. Of those injured, 36 were admitted to hospital for medical treatment. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum later stated that five of the injured passengers were in serious condition, underscoring the severity of the derailment.

According to officials, the train left the tracks while rounding a bend close to Nizanda. Images from the scene showed several carriages tilted off the rails, with parts of the train resting dangerously close to the edge of a cliff. Emergency responders and rescue workers were seen assisting passengers as they carefully evacuated from the damaged cars.

Mexico’s Attorney General confirmed that an official investigation had been launched to determine the cause of the derailment. The inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including track conditions, train operation and safety protocols. Authorities have not yet released further details pending the outcome of the investigation.

In response to the incident, President Sheinbaum announced that senior government officials were travelling to the crash site. Among them was the Secretary of the Navy, reflecting the federal government’s direct involvement in the emergency response and ongoing assessment of the situation.

The Interoceanic train involved in the accident consisted of two locomotives and four passenger cars, the navy said. Mexico’s navy currently oversees the operation of the national railway network, including this strategic rail line.

Oaxaca Governor Salomón Jara Cruz issued a statement expressing deep regret over the tragedy. He noted that state authorities were working closely with federal agencies to provide assistance to victims and their families, as well as to support rescue and recovery efforts.

The Interoceanic rail link was inaugurated two years ago as part of a broader national effort to stimulate economic growth in southern Mexico. Championed by former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador, the project aims to modernise transport across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec and position the region as a vital trade corridor.

Beyond passenger travel, the rail link is central to plans to expand freight transport, upgrade ports and develop industrial infrastructure. The government has described the initiative as a long term strategy to strengthen regional development and connectivity between Mexico’s coasts.

As investigations continue, authorities have emphasized their focus on supporting those affected by the crash while working to establish the exact cause of the derailment.