Victims Criticize Authorities for Lack of Information and Access to Investigation
Nearly a month after the Interoceanic Train derailment in Oaxaca, which resulted in 14 deaths and over a hundred injuries, victims have denounced authorities for withholding information and access to the investigation. Meanwhile, the federal government announced on Wednesday that it would seek international certification for the operation of the railway project, deemed a strategic initiative for the country.
Victims’ Legal Representatives File a Lawsuit for Negligent Injury and Other Crimes
On January 5, 2026, the legal representatives of the victims filed a lawsuit for negligent injury and other crimes with the competent authority, according to a statement.
Due to the lack of official information about the progress of the investigations, they formally requested access to the investigation file but received no response. As a result, they initiated a hearing for omission under Article 258 of the National Code of Criminal Procedures, reiterating their request for access to the files.
Moreover, they denounced that despite knowing through media about the possible initial hearing, victims have not been officially notified. Therefore, they sought direct information from the Federal Center of Penal Justice.
“We reiterate our respect for due process and the presumption of innocence, but we firmly exercise the rights of victims to access justice, truth, and effective participation in the investigation,” they emphasized.
FGR’s Preliminary Report Attributes Accident to Excessive Speed
On Tuesday, the Fiscal General de la República (FGR) released its preliminary report on the Interoceanic Train derailment, stating that excessive speed was the cause of the accident on December 28. The train was carrying around 250 passengers at the time.
Fiscal Ernestina Godoy’s Findings
According to Fiscal Ernestina Godoy, the train was traveling at 65 kilometers per hour in a curve where the speed limit was 50 km/h. In straight sections, it exceeded the maximum allowed by up to 41 kilometers per hour.
The official mentioned that the braking system functioned correctly and no mechanical failures were detected that could compromise the operation of the convoy. Sources confirmed the detention of the train driver, against whom the FGR will pursue criminal charges for negligent homicide, without ruling out further responsibilities as the investigation progresses.
Government Seeks International Certification
During the morning press conference at Palacio Nacional, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that the federal government would seek international certification for the Interoceanic Train’s operation to strengthen safety protocols and prevent similar incidents from recurring.
The president explained that this certification would allow for additional recommendations in passenger service operation, aligned with the principles of the General Law on Victims, particularly the principle of non-recurrence.
Sheinbaum explained that the Railway and Integrated Public Transport Agency, under the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT), is conducting its own technical analysis of the accident to determine the causes that led to loss of control due to excessive speed, despite the drivers’ extensive railway experience.
Damage Reparation and Project Continuity
The president also mentioned that the amounts of compensation for victims and their families would be determined by the Federal General Prosecutor’s Office based on an individual review of each case and historical criteria applied in similar situations.
The damage reparation will not be imposed, but must be accepted by each victim or family member, who retain the right to pursue corresponding legal actions.
Despite the tragedy, Sheinbaum affirmed that the accident would not halt the National Railway Plan, which includes the construction and rehabilitation of over 3,000 kilometers of passenger trains. However, she acknowledged the need to enhance safety standards in new rail corridors.
