Background and Relevance of the Incident
The Mexican Federal Attorney General’s Office (FGR) has concluded that excessive speed was the primary cause of the Interoceanic train derailment on December 28, resulting in 14 fatalities and 97 injuries. The incident occurred at kilometer Z230+290 on the Salina Cruz–Coatzacoalcos route.
Who is Felipe de Jesús “N”?
Felipe de Jesús “N” is the train’s maquinista, whose actions have come under scrutiny following this tragic event. He was apprehended on Monday morning in Pakalna, Palenque, Chiapas.
Investigation Findings
The FGR’s investigation, based on technical inspections, specialized expertise, and the analysis of the train’s “black box,” revealed that the train was traveling at 65 kilometers per hour in a curve where the maximum authorized speed was 50 km/h. Furthermore, it had reached speeds of up to 111 km/h in straight sections preceding the curve, while the limit was 70 km/h.
No Pre-existing Faults
The investigation also found no pre-existing damage to the railway infrastructure or mechanical failures in the train’s components, locomotives, wheels, coupling systems, or braking mechanisms. The train weighed approximately 400 tonnes.
“The train’s operation was proper, encompassing its components, machine operation, and physical condition,” the FGR stated.
Additionally, the analysis of the “black box” confirmed that the braking system functioned correctly. The train reduced its speed and even stopped at previous stations. However, the maquinista subsequently accelerated significantly before reaching the derailment point.
Understanding Excessive Speed’s Impact on Trains
The FGR explained that unlike conventional vehicles, excessive speed in trains is amplified by weight, mass, and curve radius, increasing centrifugal force and causing the train to leave the tracks and overturn.
Actions Taken and Victims
Felipe de Jesús “N” was arrested in Pakalna, Chiapas, by the Federal Police Ministerial and taken to the FGR offices in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas.
The FGR head also mentioned the establishment of a Permanent Attention Table for Victims in coordination with the Secretariat of Government, the Federal Executive’s Legal Advisory Council, the Victims Attention Commission, IMSS, IMSS Bienestar, ISSSTE, and the Navy Secretariat. This collaboration aims to compile clinical files and advance in comprehensive damage repair, which is being done immediately with information from the railway company.
Furthermore, additional analyses—including topographical, geometrical, geotechnical, material quality, and wheel-rail interaction studies—will be conducted to rule out other factors. The FGR has committed to keeping the public informed while respecting due process.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was involved in the train derailment? Felipe de Jesús “N,” the maquinista of the Interoceanic train, was detained following the incident.
- What were the findings of the FGR investigation? The investigation concluded that excessive speed was the primary cause, with the train traveling 15 km/h above the curve’s speed limit and reaching up to 41 km/h faster in straight sections.
- Were there any pre-existing faults in the train or infrastructure? No; the FGR found no damage to the railway infrastructure or mechanical failures in the train.
- How does excessive speed affect trains differently from cars? Excessive speed in trains is amplified by weight, mass, and curve radius, increasing centrifugal force and causing the train to leave the tracks and overturn.
- What actions is the FGR taking to support victims? The FGR has established a Permanent Attention Table for Victims, collaborating with various organizations to compile clinical files and advance in comprehensive damage repair.
