At least 23 people were killed and 65 hospitalised when a railway overpass and train collapsed into a busy road in Mexico City on Monday night, crushing cars under fallen carriages and rubble.
Reuters reports that authorities halted rescue efforts shortly after they began, saying there was a risk that more train parts and debris could slam down onto the road.
A video on local channel Milenio TV showed the structure plummeting into a stream of cars near the Olivos station in the southeast of the city at around 10.30 p.m. local time.
At least two train carriages precariously hung from the damaged overpass while a crane was working to stabilise the train carriages so rescuers could resume their search for survivors. Initial rescue efforts saw medical and fire crews trying to access the carriages. The army was also in attendance.
Mexico City Mayor, Claudia Sheinbaum told the press on the site that it appeared a girder had given way on the overpass but the cause was being investigated while those affected were taken to the hospital.
Seven of the people transported to the hospital were in a critical condition and undergoing surgery, she said.
Reuters